Mechlorethamine
chemical structure
The combination chemotherapy regimen known as MOPP consists of the following drugs:
- Mechlorethamine (aka HN2 or Mustargen)
- Oncovin (vincristine)
- Procarbazine
- Prednisone
A Typical MOPP Regimen (regimens should be tailored to the individual)
- Cycle length: 28 days
- Number of cycles: 4-8
- Days 1 and 8: Mechlorethamine and vincristine (IV push)
- Days 1-14: Procarbazine (oral)
- Days 1-14: Prednisone (oral)
Vomit potential?
- Days 1 and 8: Very high
- Days 2-7, 9-14: Moderately high
What MOPP is effective for and why
The MOPP regimen's sole application in cancer treatment is as a salvage, or second-line, therapy in patients with Hodgkin's lymphoma who have failed first-line therapy (the ABVD regimen).
Existing variations of MOPP include C-MOPP (add cyclophosphamide) and MOPP/ABVD, a regimen that alternates the MOPP and ABVD regimens.
MOPP Side effects
While each patient will have his or her own experiences with the side effects of the MOPP regimen, it is not uncommon for patients to myelosuppression, vulnerability to infection, nausea and/or vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, easy bleeding, and peripheral neuropathy. Most of these side effects should subside when one is finished with the regimen. Patients are encouraged to report all side effects to their oncologist or oncology team.
This regimen is extremely toxic to the gonads, or sex organs, a quality derived chiefly from the presence of the procarbazine. It is not uncommon for permanent fertility and sterility to follow this therapy in women and men over age 25.
Sources
- Ko, Andrew H MD et al. 2008. Everyone's Guide to Cancer Therapy, Fifth Ed. Kansas City. Andres McMeel Publishing LLC.
- Boyiadzis, Michael M. et al. Hematology-Oncology Therapy. 2007. New York: McGraw Hill, Medical Publishing Division.
- Perry, Michael C, Editor. Companion Handbook to the Chemotherapy Sourcebook. 1999. Baltimore; Williams & Wilkins.
- Lymphoma Information Network: MOPP
Significant studies relating to MOPP
