৳ 40.76/unit
Pack: ৳ 40.76
৳ 40.76/unit
Pack: ৳ 40.76
At a glance
Mercaptopurine is an anti-cancer medication used for maintenance therapy of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). It interferes with DNA and RNA formation in cancer cells to stop their growth and division.
Indications
- Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) - maintenance therapy (as part of a combination regimen)
- Crohn's disease (off-label)
Pharmacology
Mercaptopurine is converted intracellularly to active nucleotides that interfere with nucleic acid synthesis and prevent RNA and DNA formation.
Dosage
ALL (Adults):
- Induction: 2.5 mg/kg/day (usually 100-200 mg/day)
- Maintenance: 1.5-2.5 mg/kg/day
- Reduce dose by 75% with allopurinol
ALL (Children): 1.25-2.5 mg/kg/day (50-75 mg/m²); Maintenance: 1.5-2.5 mg/kg/day
Crohn's Disease (Adults): Initial 1-1.5 mg/kg/day; max 125 mg/day
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea, vomiting
- Skin rash
- Decreased white blood cell count (neutrophils)
- Intestinal ulcer
- Anemia
- Increased bilirubin
- Low blood platelets
- Increased transaminases
- Diarrhea, loss of appetite
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Mercaptopurine is unsafe during pregnancy (Category D); definite evidence of risk to the fetus. Use only in life-threatening situations with doctor's advice.
Pregnancy Category: D — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Precautions & warnings
- Caution in hepatic and renal dysfunction; monitor hepatic function periodically
- Myelosuppression - monitor blood counts regularly
- TPMT deficiency may cause severe myelotoxicity
- Do not use during pregnancy and lactation
- Caution when driving or doing activities requiring concentration (may cause dizziness)
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause myelosuppression, nausea, diarrhea; symptomatic treatment.
Storage conditions
Store at 20-25°C.