How does it work?

Mercaptopurine is part of a group of medicines called 'cytotoxic antimetabolites' used in the treatment of cancer. Cancers form when some cells within the body multiply uncontrollably and abnormally. These cells then spread and destroy nearby tissues. Mercaptopurine acts by slowing this process down. It kills cancer cells by attaching to a chemical within the cell and preventing it from using vital nutrients and other substances necessary for normal activity. Unfortunately, mercaptopurine also affects normal, healthy cells and therefore it produces serious side-effects during long-term treatment. The most important side effect is in the bone marrow where blood cells are made. Regular blood tests may therefore be needed to prevent the damage becoming permanent. Mercaptopurine can be taken by mouth as a tablet. It is recommended that effective contraceptive measures be taken when either partner is taking mercaptopurine.

What is it used for?

Leukaemia

Warning!

For use only under specialist medical supervision

Women who are pregnant should not handle this medicine.

Handle this medicine with care; avoid direct contact with bare skin

Use with caution in

Decreased kidney function

Decreased liver function

Not to be used in

Previous allergic reaction to the medicine

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should not be used in pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine should not be used by breastfeeding mothers. Discuss this with your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Diarrhoea

Alteration in results of liver function tests

Nausea and vomiting

Failure of bone marrow to develop (bone marrow aplasia)

Ulceration of mucosal surfaces

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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