First alkylating agent developed (WWII mustard gas derivative). Bifunctional alkylator forming interstrand DNA crosslinks. Component of MOPP rescue protocol for lymphoma. Extremely vesicant. Cell-cycle non-specific.
At a glance
Class
Nitrogen Mustard Alkylating Agent (Chemotherapy)
Schedule
Prescription (Chemotherapy)
Storage
Store at room temperature; reconstituted unstable — use within minutes; chemotherapy precautions
Dosing
Rescue protocol for relapsed lymphoma
Frequency
Day 1 of each MOPP cycle (q4 weeks)
Rarely used in feline oncology
Safety
CBC at nadirCatheter patency (confirm blood return before/during injection)GI toleranceTumor response
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Mechlorethamine?
Mechlorethamine is a nitrogen mustard alkylating agent (chemotherapy) used in pets. First alkylating agent developed (WWII mustard gas derivative). Bifunctional alkylator forming interstrand DNA crosslinks. Component of MOPP rescue protocol for lymphoma. Extremely vesicant. Cell-cycle non-specific.
›What is Mechlorethamine used for in pets?
Mechlorethamine is used in veterinary medicine for: Rescue protocol for relapsed lymphoma; Rarely used in feline oncology.
›What is the Mechlorethamine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Mechlorethamine is typically dosed as follows — Rescue protocol for relapsed lymphoma: undefined undefined PO Day 1 of each MOPP cycle (q4 weeks). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Mechlorethamine dose for cats?
For cats, Mechlorethamine is typically dosed as follows — Rarely used in feline oncology: undefined undefined IV Per protocol. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Mechlorethamine need a prescription?
Yes. Mechlorethamine is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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