Myleran

Myleran is the brand name for busulfan, a medication used in chemotherapy. It belongs to a class of drugs called alkylating agents, which work by damaging the DNA of rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells. Myleran is primarily used to treat Philadelphia chromosome-negative chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). It can also be used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs as part of a conditioning regimen before a stem cell or bone marrow transplant, particularly for conditions like leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes.

The administration of Myleran is typically oral, taken as tablets. It is absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed throughout the body. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the specific condition being treated, the patient's response, and other individual factors. Myleran is metabolized in the liver and excreted through the kidneys.

Like most chemotherapy agents, Myleran has potential side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fatigue. More serious side effects can include myelosuppression, which is a reduction in the production of blood cells, leading to an increased risk of infection, bleeding, and anemia. Other potential side effects include lung problems (busulfan lung), liver toxicity, and neurological effects. Due to its toxicity, Myleran is a prescription medication and its use is closely monitored by healthcare professionals. It is not suitable for everyone and contraindications exist, particularly in individuals with severe hypersensitivity to the drug.