Mercaptopurine
A purine antagonist. Like azathioprine, it requires TPMT enzyme monitoring to prevent severe bone marrow toxicity.
Dosage by Body Weight
Pediatric ALL dose: 75 mg/m² daily. IBD dose: 1 mg/kg to 1.5 mg/kg daily. Take on an empty stomach.
- Body Weight
- 20-30 kg
- Dose
- 25 mg to 50 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Avoid milk or dairy products within 2 hours of taking.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20-30 kg | 25 mg to 50 mg | Once daily | Avoid milk or dairy products within 2 hours of taking. |
Formulation
Purpose
Maintenance therapy for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) and treatment of refractory Crohn’s Disease.
Generic Name
6-Mercaptopurine (6-MP)Branded Drug Names
Mercaptopurine is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.
Alternatives
Safety Advice
Alcohol
CAUTIONMercaptopurine: Alcohol can increase liver strain, stomach irritation, or immune-related complications. Avoid alcohol unless your specialist allows it.
Pregnancy
CAUTIONMercaptopurine: Use in pregnancy only under specialist advice because immune, cancer, or transplant treatment requires careful risk assessment.
Breast Feeding
CAUTIONMercaptopurine: Breastfeeding may not be recommended with some immunosuppressive or chemotherapy medicines. Follow specialist advice.
Driving
CAUTIONMercaptopurine: May cause dizziness, fatigue, nausea, or weakness. Avoid driving if affected.
Liver
CAUTIONMercaptopurine: Can affect liver function and usually requires regular blood tests. Use only with specialist monitoring.
Kidney
CAUTIONMercaptopurine: Kidney function may need close monitoring, particularly with calcineurin inhibitors or high-risk regimens.