Valchlor Side Effects

Generic name: mechlorethamine topical

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Nov 11, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Valchlor.

Applies to mechlorethamine topical: topical application gel/jelly Side Effects associated with mechlorethamine topical. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Valchlor.

Applies to mechlorethamine topical: topical application gel/jelly.

Precautions

It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits for any unwanted effects that may be caused by this medicine.

Using this medicine while you are pregnant can harm your unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control to keep from getting pregnant. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell your doctor right away.

This medicine may cause serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Call your doctor right away if you have a rash, itching, trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, or any swelling of your hands, face, or mouth while you are using this medicine.

Do not get this medicine in your eyes. If eye contact occurs, you may have pain, burning, swelling, redness, sensitivity to light, or blurred vision. The medicine can cause permanent eye injury. If you get this medicine in your eye, rinse the eye right away for at least 15 minutes with water or an eye wash solution and call your doctor.

Avoid getting this medicine in your nose or mouth. It may cause pain, redness, or ulcers. If this occurs, rinse your nose or mouth right away for at least 15 minutes with water and call your doctor.

This medicine may cause unwanted skin reactions, including non-melanoma skin cancer. Contact your doctor right away if you have redness, swelling, itching, ulcers, or blisters on the skin.

Serious side effects of Valchlor

Along with its needed effects, mechlorethamine topical (the active ingredient contained in Valchlor) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking mechlorethamine topical:

Other side effects of Valchlor

Some side effects of mechlorethamine topical may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

For healthcare professionals

Applies to mechlorethamine topical: topical gel.

General adverse events

The most common adverse reactions (5% or greater) are dermatitis, pruritus, bacterial skin infection, skin ulceration or blistering, and hyperpigmentation^[Ref]

Hematologic

• Very common (10% or more): Reductions in hemoglobin, neutrophil count, or platelet count (13%)^[Ref]

Oncologic

• Common (1% to 10%): Nonmelanoma skin cancer^[Ref]

Ocular

• Frequency not reported: Eye pain, burns, inflammation, photophobia, blurred vision, blindness, irreversible anterior eye injury^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Very common (10% or more): Dermatitis (56%), pruritus (20%), bacterial skin infection (11%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Skin ulceration or blistering, skin hyperpigmentation^[Ref]

See also:

Further information

Valchlor side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer