Bifunctional alkylating nitrogen mustard derivative of phenylalanine that forms intrastrand and interstrand DNA crosslinks, preventing replication. Incorporated into tumor cells via amino acid transport systems.
At a glance
Class
Alkylating Agent (Chemotherapy)
Schedule
Prescription (Chemotherapy)
Storage
Refrigerate tablets 2–8°C; use immediately after reconstitution (IV); handle with chemotherapy precautions
Dosing
Used for multiple myeloma, plasma cell tumors, and cutaneous lymphoma
Frequency
Pulsed protocol (see notes)
Used for multiple myeloma and plasma cell tumors
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.
Find a vet near you →Safety
CBC at nadir (day 14–21 for delayed myelosuppression)Serum protein electrophoresis (multiple myeloma response)Renal function
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.
Find a vet near you →Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Melphalan?
Melphalan is a alkylating agent (chemotherapy) used in pets. Bifunctional alkylating nitrogen mustard derivative of phenylalanine that forms intrastrand and interstrand DNA crosslinks, preventing replication. Incorporated into tumor cells via amino acid transport systems.
›What is Melphalan used for in pets?
Melphalan is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for multiple myeloma, plasma cell tumors, and cutaneous lymphoma; Used for multiple myeloma and plasma cell tumors.
›What is the Melphalan dose for dogs?
For dogs, Melphalan is typically dosed as follows — Used for multiple myeloma, plasma cell tumors, and cutaneous lymphoma: 1.5 mg/m² PO Pulsed protocol (see notes). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Melphalan dose for cats?
For cats, Melphalan is typically dosed as follows — Used for multiple myeloma and plasma cell tumors: 0.1 mg/kg PO q3-week pulses. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Melphalan need a prescription?
Yes. Melphalan is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
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.
Find a vet near you →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database