Definition of Mercaptopurine

Reviewed on 3/29/2021

Mercaptopurine: A drug that acts as an antimetabolite, interfering with the metabolism of purine bases and inhibiting the synthesis of DNA and RNA.

Mercaptopurine is used to treat acute lymphoblastic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and polycythemia vera. It is also used in the treatment of Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and psoriatic arthritis.

Also known as 6-mercaptopurine, 6-MP, or MP.

SLIDESHOW

Heart Disease: Causes of a Heart Attack See Slideshow

Health Solutions From Our Sponsors