Note: This document contains side effect information about mechlorethamine topical. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Valchlor.
Applies to mechlorethamine topical: topical application gel/jelly.
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:
More common
- Blistering, crusting, irritation, itching, or reddening of the skin
- cracked, dry, scaly skin
- pain, swelling, tenderness, or warmth on the skin
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:
Less common
- Darkening of the skin
For Healthcare Professionals
Applies to mechlorethamine topical: topical gel.
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]
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]
General
The most common adverse reactions (5% or greater) are dermatitis, pruritus, bacterial skin infection, skin ulceration or blistering, and hyperpigmentation[Ref]
