Definition

A specific medication used in cancer treatment, particularly in chemotherapy, that helps to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells.

Example

The doctor prescribed melphalan as part of the chemotherapy regimen for the patient.

Conversation

Have you heard about melphalan?

Yeah, I read it's used for treating certain cancers.

Right, it's interesting how it targets cancer cells specifically.

Exactly! It’s amazing what modern medicine can do.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Melphalan is derived from the chemical name "N-(2-chloroethyl)-N-phenylalanine," where "mel" refers to "melanoma" (a type of skin cancer) and "phalan" is derived from "phenylalanine" (an amino acid). The word combines these elements to indicate its use in treating melanoma.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mel' as relating to melanoma, a skin cancer, and 'phalan' as part of phenylalanine, an amino acid. This helps you remember that melphalan is a drug used in the treatment of melanoma.

Visually Confused Words