Mercaptopurine

Mercaptopurine Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Mercaptopurine is a brand name. Its generic name is Mercaptopurine.

Introduction

Mercaptopurine (also known by its brand name, Purinethol) is a drug used in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. It is used in combination with other drugs to reduce the number of leukemic cells and prevent relapses. Mercaptopurine can also be used for a variety of other conditions, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Uses and Mechanism of Action

Mercaptopurine is a purine analog, a type of chemotherapy drug that works by blocking the activity of enzymes involved in the replication and growth of cancer cells. By inhibiting the action of these enzymes, mercaptopurine helps to stop the spread of cancer cells and prevent relapses. Mercaptopurine can also be used to reduce inflammation in acute and chronic inflammatory diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

The effects of mercaptopurine can vary depending on the condition being treated, but most drugs that contain mercaptopurine begin to take effect within a few weeks of starting the medication.

Absorption, Route of Elimination, Dosage, Administration, and Side Effects

Mercaptopurine is administered orally or by injection and is absorbed through the digestive tract. It is then eliminated mainly through the kidneys. The usual dose of mercaptopurine is 2.5–7.5 mg/kg body weight per day, taken in divided doses two or three times per day. It is important to take mercaptopurine exactly as your doctor prescribes and not to miss any doses. Side effects of mercaptopurine include gastrointestinal distress, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, fatigue, hair loss, and an increased risk of infection.

Toxicity, Precaution, Interactions, Disease Interactions, Drug Interactions, Food Interactions, Pregnancy Use, and Lactation Use

Mercaptopurine has a high toxicity and can cause serious damage to the bone marrow and liver. It is important to talk to your doctor about any conditions or medications that may interact with mercaptopurine before taking it. For example, there are some drugs that can increase the risk of mercaptopurine toxicity, such as antacids and other medications that contain aluminum. Women should let their doctor know if they are pregnant or breastfeeding before taking mercaptopurine.

Acute Overdose, Contraindication, Use Direction, Storage Condition, Volume of Distribution, Half Life, and Clearance

An acute overdose of mercaptopurine can be dangerous and should be treated immediately. Mercaptopurine is contraindicated in patients with severe liver or kidney disease, and in patients taking certain medications. It should be stored in tight containers, away from heat and moisture. The volume of distribution of mercaptopurine is small, with a median half-life of 80 minutes and a clearance of 11-15L/hr.

Here you find in details version of Mercaptopurine

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Mercaptopurine

What is mercaptopurine?

Mercaptopurine (also known as 6-mercaptopurine) is an immunosuppressant and antitumor agent used to treat certain types of cancer. It is a type of purine analog and works by interfering with the DNA and RNA of tumor cells, preventing them from growing and multiplying.

How does Mercaptopurine work?

Mercaptopurine works by interfering with the growth and division of cancer cells. It targets the DNA and RNA of tumor cells, stopping them from replicating and growing. It is also known to interfere with enzymes called thiopurine methyltransferase (TPMT) which are thought to be involved in the breakdown of certain purine drugs.

What is Mercaptopurine used for?

Mercaptopurine is used to treat certain types of leukemia, such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). It can also be used as an immunosuppressant to suppress the immune system in people with Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriasis.

What are the side effects of Mercaptopurine?

Common side effects of Mercaptopurine include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, mouth sores, diarrhea, fever, rash, and hair loss. More serious side effects can include increased risk of infection, allergic reactions, liver damage, and anemia.

Is Mercaptopurine safe?

Mercaptopurine is generally safe when taken as prescribed and monitored closely for side effects. It is important to notify a doctor immediately if any new or worsening symptoms occur while taking Mercaptopurine.

Can Mercaptopurine affect the liver?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can affect the liver. It can cause symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, and abdominal pain. If these symptoms occur, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

What is the dosage for Mercaptopurine?

The dosage of mercaptopurine depends on the individual and the condition being treated. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions when taking this medication.

Does Mercaptopurine interact with other medications?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can interact with other medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all the medications that you are taking. Some of the drugs that can interact with mercaptopurine include allopurinol, cholestyramine, and certain antibiotics.

Does Mercaptopurine need to be refrigerated?

No, Mercaptopurine does not need to be refrigerated. However, it should be stored at room temperature away from light and moisture.

Can Mercaptopurine cause cancer?

No, Mercaptopurine is used to treat certain types of cancer, not cause it. However, long-term use of Mercaptopurine has been linked to an increased risk of some types of cancer.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Mercaptopurine?

No, it is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Mercaptopurine. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and liver damage.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Mercaptopurine?

If you miss a dose of mercaptopurine, it is important to take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Can pregnant women take Mercaptopurine?

No, it is not recommended for pregnant women to take mercaptopurine. This medication can be passed to a fetus via the placenta and can cause birth defects. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should talk to their doctor before taking this medication.

Is Mercaptopurine covered by insurance?

Depends. It depends on your health insurance provider and coverage that you have. It is best to check with your insurance provider to see if Mercaptopurine is included in your plan.

Does Mercaptopurine need to be taken with food?

No, Mercaptopurine does not need to be taken with food. However, it is best to take it at the same time each day and to avoid taking it on an empty stomach.

What is the typical length of treatment with Mercaptopurine?

The length of treatment with Mercaptopurine depends on the individual and the condition being treated. It is best to follow the instructions of your doctor when taking this medication.

What type of cancer does Mercaptopurine treat?

Does Mercaptopurine cause infertility?

No, Mercaptopurine does not cause infertility. However, it can cause certain side effects that may affect fertility, such as hair loss and anemia.

Can Mercaptopurine be taken long-term?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can be taken long-term depending on the condition being treated and the individual. It is important to follow the instructions of your doctor when taking this medication.

How long does it take for Mercaptopurine to start working?

The timeframe for Mercaptopurine to start working depends on the condition being treated and the individual. It is important to follow the instructions of your doctor when taking this medication.

What should be done if an overdose of Mercaptopurine is taken?

If an overdose of Mercaptopurine is taken, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Symptoms of an overdose can include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, mouth sores, diarrhea, fever, rash, and hair loss.

How often should Mercaptopurine be taken?

The frequency of taking Mercaptopurine depends on the individual and the condition being treated. It is important to follow the instructions of your doctor when taking this medication.

Can mercaptopurine cause joint pain?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause joint pain. If joint pain occurs, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

Can Mercaptopurine cause stomach pain?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause stomach pain. If stomach pain occurs, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

Can Mercaptopurine cause dizziness?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause dizziness. If dizziness occurs, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

Can Mercaptopurine cause headaches?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause headaches. If headaches occur, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

Can Mercaptopurine cause blurred vision?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause blurred vision. If blurred vision occurs, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

Can Mercaptopurine cause anemia?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause anemia. If anemia occurs, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

Can Mercaptopurine cause hair loss?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause hair loss. If hair loss occurs, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

Can Mercaptopurine cause mouth sores?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause mouth sores. If mouth sores occur, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

Can Mercaptopurine cause diarrhea?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause diarrhea. If diarrhea occurs, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

Can Mercaptopurine cause liver damage?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause liver damage. If liver damage occurs, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

Can Mercaptopurine cause weight gain?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause weight gain. If weight gain occurs, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

Can Mercaptopurine cause kidney damage?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause kidney damage. If kidney damage occurs, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

Can Mercaptopurine cause breathing problems?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause breathing problems. If breathing problems occur, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

Can Mercaptopurine cause a rash?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause a rash. If a rash occurs, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

Can Mercaptopurine cause fever?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause fever. If fever occurs, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

Can Mercaptopurine cause joint swelling?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause joint swelling. If joint swelling occurs, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

Can Mercaptopurine cause muscle pain?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause muscle pain. If muscle pain occurs, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

Can Mercaptopurine cause mood changes?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause mood changes. If mood changes occur, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

Can Mercaptopurine cause neurological problems?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause neurological problems. If neurological problems occur, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

Can Mercaptopurine cause heart problems?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause heart problems. If heart problems occur, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.

Can Mercaptopurine cause blood pressure changes?

Yes, Mercaptopurine can cause blood pressure changes. If blood pressure changes occur, it is important to notify a doctor immediately.