What is this medication for?
Mercaptopurine belongs to the group of cancer-fighting medications known as antineoplastics, and specifically to the group of antineoplastics known as antimetabolites. Mercaptopurine fights cancer by preventing the growth of cancer cells, which eventually results in their destruction. Mercaptopurine is usually used to treat certain types of leukemia. Often, mercaptopurine is used along with other cancer medications.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Purinethol® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended dose of mercaptopurine varies according to the specific type of leukemia being treated, the response to therapy, the other medications used, the stage of the disease, and the person's body size or weight. The appropriate dose of mercaptopurine is usually taken by mouth as a single dose on a daily basis.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. This medication may cause nausea and vomiting, but it is important that you continue to use it. Do not stop taking it without talking with your doctor. If you vomit shortly after taking the medicine, contact your doctor for instruction on whether to take more medication or not.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Your doctor may want you to drink extra fluids while taking this medication in order to help you pass more fluid and protect your kidneys.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
As well as interfering with the genetic material DNA of cancer cells, mercaptopurine can interfere with some of your normal cells. This can cause a number of side effects such as mouth sores. Keep track of any side effects and report them to your doctor as suggested in the section, "What side effects are possible with this medication?"
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Mercaptopurine should not be used by anyone who:
- is allergic to mercaptopurine or any ingredients of the medication
- has been resistant to the effects of mercaptopurine in the past