A bifunctional alkylating agent and phenylalanine derivative of nitrogen mustard. Melphalan hydrochloride is converted into highly reactive ethylenimmonium intermediates that induce covalent guanine N7-N7 intra- and inter-crosslinks and alkylation of adenine N3 of DNA. This agent also alkylates RNA and protein structures. As a result RNA transcription and protein synthesis are inhibited, ultimately leading to cell growth arrest and/or death. orA drug used to treat multiple myeloma in patients who cannot take melphalan by mouth. It is also being studied in the treatment of other types of cancer. Melphalan hydrochloride may kill cancer cells by damaging their DNA and stopping them from dividing. It is a type of alkylating agent. Also called Alkeran for Injection and Evomela.