About mercaptopurine
Purine antimetabolite chemotherapy
Used for
- Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, usually as part of combination treatment.
- Other blood cancers, under specialist direction.
Usual adult dose
For acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, commonly 50–75 mg/m² once daily; specialist-adjusted to blood counts and treatment protocol.
Usual dose in children
For acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, commonly 50–75 mg/m² once daily; specialist-adjusted to blood counts and treatment protocol.
Common side effects
- Low blood-cell counts, increasing infection or bleeding risk.
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or mouth sores.
- Liver injury or raised liver enzymes.
- Hair loss or rash.
Important warnings
- Requires regular blood-count and liver-function monitoring.
- Can cause severe bone-marrow suppression; dose may need adjustment for inherited enzyme deficiencies.
- Avoid live vaccines during treatment unless the treating specialist advises otherwise.
- Contact with tablets should be limited; follow handling and disposal instructions.
Pregnancy
May harm an unborn baby. Effective contraception is recommended during treatment; discuss pregnancy plans with the specialist.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for one week after the last dose.
Interactions
- Allopurinol can greatly increase mercaptopurine effects; the dose usually needs substantial reduction.
- Febuxostat is generally avoided because it can dangerously increase mercaptopurine levels.
- Warfarin effects may change; closer monitoring may be needed.
- Live vaccines may cause infection or work poorly during treatment.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.