mechlorethamine topical

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum 

DNA strands are crossed when mechlorethamine topical forms covalent connections with proteins, RNA, and other molecules. This cross-linking obstructs DNA transcription and replication, which prevents cell division and results in cell death. 

mechlorethamine topical has immunomodulatory effects, which may help explain why it is effective in treating cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL). It can change how immune cells that are involved in the development of the disease operate. The treatment for CTCL is mechlorethamine topical, which has a constrained range of activity. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency defined  

1-10% 

Bacterial skin infection, moderately severe or severe (2%) 

Skin hyperpigmentation (5%) 

Pruritus, moderately severe or severe (4%) 

Skin ulceration or blistering (3-6%) 

>10% 

Pruritus, any grade (20%) 

Dermatitis, any grade (56%) 

Bacterial skin infection, any grade (11%) 

Dermatitis, moderately severe or severe (23%) 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning 

mechlorethamine topical can raise your risk of getting secondary cancers and other types of malignancies. Patients getting prolonged or high-dose treatment are at a larger risk than other patients.  

When applied topically, mechlorethamine can result in severe skin responses, including blistering, ulceration, and necrosis. These responses can be excruciatingly painful, and therapeutic withdrawal may be necessary.  

If used while pregnant, mechlorethamine topical can be harmful to the developing foetus. Using reliable contraception and avoiding pregnancy are crucial while receiving mechlorethamine therapy. 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

• Individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to mechlorethamine or any of the formulation’s constituents should not use mechlorethamine topical. If an allergic response happens, the medication should be stopped immediately. 

Caution: 

• Systemic toxicity may result from the topical mechlorethamine’s potential for systemic absorption. Patients with significant skin lesions, poor skin integrity, or skin areas that may be more susceptible to absorption should be treated with caution. 
• mechlorethamine topical is a strong irritant that can have negative effects on the skin. To identify and treat any symptoms of irritation or sensitization, careful application and monitoring of the treated region are required. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:     

Pregnancy category: D 

Lactation: Excretion into human milk is unknown  

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 

Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women.  

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women. 

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women. 

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology  

Nitrogen mustard, also known as mechlorethamine topical, is an alkylating compound having anti-cancer potential. 

DNA strands are crossed when mechlorethamine topical forms covalent connections with proteins, RNA, and other molecules. This cross-linking obstructs DNA transcription and replication, which prevents cell division and results in cell death.  

The exact mode of action in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma is yet unknown, it is believed to involve both direct cytotoxic effects on malignant T-cells and immune response regulation. 

Pharmacodynamics 

mechlorethamine topical alkylation of cellular components, particularly DNA, results in cytotoxic effects. Cells’ capacity to replicate and transcribe genetic material is hampered because it interferes with the integrity and functionality of DNA. 

In CTCL, mechlorethamine topical is used for targeted application to the afflicted areas of the skin. Targeting the cancerous T-cells found in the skin, it predominantly has pharmacodynamic effects at the application site. 

Pharmacokinetics 

Absorption   

When mechlorethamine topical is applied directly to the skin, the epidermis serves as the route of absorption. Depending on the application place, duration of contact, and skin integrity, the degree of absorption may differ. The fact that mechlorethamine is a tiny molecule can help with its ability to pass through intact skin. 

Distribution 

mechlorethamine topical can spread throughout the body. Due to quick metabolism and the creation of inactive metabolites, its distribution is constrained. For mechlorethamine topical, the scope and pattern of distribution are not well understood. 

Metabolism 

mechlorethamine topical rapidly changes metabolically, particularly in the liver. The glutathione-S-transferase enzyme catalyzes conjugation with glutathione, which is the main metabolic pathway. Different metabolites are created as a result of this process, and they differ from the parent chemical in that they are less toxic and inactive. 

Elimination and excretion 

The kidneys are largely used for the excretion of the mechlorethamine topical metabolites that are created during conjugation with glutathione. mechlorethamine and its metabolites have a variable, but often brief, elimination half-life. 

Adminstartion

Administration 

To the affected area of skin, apply a thin layer of mechlorethamine topical. To prevent direct contact with the drug, put on gloves.  

Until it is absorbed, evenly distribute the drug and gently rub it into the skin.  

Be careful to keep your distance from open wounds, healthy skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: mechlorethamine topical 

Why do we use mechlorethamine topical? 

The main indication for mechlorethamine topical therapy is the management of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL). 

To target the cancerous T-cells and treat the disease’s cutaneous manifestations, mechlorethamine topical is applied directly to the areas of the skin that are affected.