Purinethol (Mercaptopurine) Patient Information: How Should I Take the Drug at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Purinethol

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Leukemia facts

Leukemia is a cancer of the blood cells.
While the exact cause(s) of leukemia is not known, risk factors have been identified.
Leukemias are grouped by how quickly the disease develops (acute or chronic) as well as by the type of blood cell that is affected (lymphocytes or myelocytes). The four main types of leukemia include acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), acute myelocytic leukemia (AML), and chronic myelocytic leukemia (CML).
People with leukemia are at significantly increased risk for developing infections, anemia, and bleeding. Other symptoms and signs include easy bruising, weight loss, night sweats, and unexplained fevers.
The diagnosis of leukemia is supported by findings of the medical history and examination, and examining blood and bone marrow samples under a microscope.
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Purinethol User Reviews >>

Purinethol

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Purinethol Patient Information including How Should I Take

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking mercaptopurine (Purinethol)?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to mercaptopurine.

Before taking mercaptopurine, tell your doctor if you are allgergic to any drugs, or if you have:

liver problems;
kidney problems; or
any type of viral, bacterial, or fungal infection.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use mercaptopurine, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.

FDA pregnancy category D. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not use mercaptopurine without your doctor's consent if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication.

It is not known whether mercaptopurine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take mercaptopurine (Purinethol)?

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Take this medicine with a full glass of water.

Mercaptopurine can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill. To be sure your blood cells do not get too low, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Store mercaptopurine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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