What is this medication? MERCAPTOPURINE, 6-MP (mer kap toe PYOOR een) is a chemotherapy drug. It interferes with the growth of cancer cells and can reduce immune system activity. It is used to treat certain types of acute leukemia.
Is 6-MP an immunosuppressant?
Both Azathioprine and 6-Mercaptopurine (6-MP) belong to a group of drugs called thiopurines which are immunosuppressants. Thiopurines work by suppressing inflammation and slowing down the body’s immune response. They are also used to avoid rejection following organ transplantation.
Is 6-MP a steroid?
This medication belongs to a class of drugs called immunomodulators. It helps to reduce irritation and swelling (inflammation) in the intestines. It also decreases the long-term need for steroids. For that reason, it is sometimes referred to as a “steroid-sparing” drug.
Is mercaptopurine same as 6-MP?
What is Mercaptopurine? Mercaptopurine (6MP) is used to treat moderate to severe ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. It is often used in patients when their inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been difficult to control, for example with multiple courses of steroid therapy.
What class of drug is mercaptopurine?
Mercaptopurine is in a class of medications called purine antagonists. It works by stopping the growth of cancer cells.
What kind of drug is mercaptopurine?
Mercaptopurine is used in combination with other medicines as maintenance treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. It belongs to the group of medicines known as antimetabolites. Mercaptopurine interferes with the growth of cancer cells, which are eventually destroyed.
Does 6-MP make you tired?
Possible Side Effects (More Common) This may raise your risk of infection, make you tired and weak (fatigue), and raise your risk of bleeding. Soreness of the mouth and throat may happen with high doses of this drug. You may have red areas, white patches, or sores that hurt.
Does mercaptopurine cause weight gain?
Weight gain isn’t a common side effect of mercaptopurine (Purinethol). Talk to your provider if you experience notable changes in weight while you’re taking this medication and are concerned.
How long does mercaptopurine stay in your system?
Use an effective form of birth control to keep from getting pregnant during treatment with this medicine and for at least 6 months after your last dose.
Can 6-MP cause liver damage?
Azathioprine (Aza) and 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP) can cause liver injury but no large series exist.
Does 6-MP cause hair loss?
Important Information About 6-MP The most important things to know about 6-MP is that it may cause certain side effects, such as hair loss, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. It should also not be used within two weeks of receiving a live vaccination.
Can you drink milk with mercaptopurine?
You should not take the tablets or liquid at the same time as milk or dairy products. You can take them: 1 hour before milk or dairy products. 2 hours after milk or dairy products.
How common is hair loss with mercaptopurine?
Side effects included leukopenia (11.2%), abnormal liver function tests (3.8%), various infections, including pneumonia (3.1%), pancreatitis (2.5%), nausea (2.1%), headache (2.8%), fever (1.4%), hair loss (1%), and rash (0.7%).
When is it best to take mercaptopurine?
You can take mercaptopurine with food or on an empty stomach. Take it in the same way and at the same time every day. If you are taking the liquid form (Xaluprine®), it is important to take it in the evening. You should not take mercaptopurine tablets or liquid with milk or dairy products.
Can mercaptopurine cause fatty liver?
Mercaptopurine can also lead to a distinctive acute, clinically apparent liver injury that usually presents with fatigue and jaundice and a cholestatic or mixed pattern of serum enzyme elevations 1 to 6 months after starting therapy, but sometimes later, particularly following an increase in dose.
What are the side effects of 6-MP tablet?
- Nausea.
- Vomiting.
- Rash.
- Decreased white blood cell count (neutrophils)
- Intestinal ulcer.
- Anemia (low number of red blood cells)
- Increased bilirubin in the blood.
- Low blood platelets.
What is MP 6?
Mucopolysaccharidosis type VI (MPS VI), also known as Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome, is a progressive condition that causes many tissues and organs to enlarge, become inflamed or scarred, and eventually waste away (atrophy). Skeletal abnormalities are also common in this condition.
Can mercaptopurine cause kidney problems?
Mercaptopurine can increase your risk of bleeding, infection, or liver problems. You will need frequent medical tests. Your next dose may be delayed based on the results. Mercaptopurine can affect your kidneys.
Can mercaptopurine make you feel sick?
Side effects from azathioprine and mercaptopurine may include the following: Nausea (feeling sick), vomiting and loss of appetite. This reaction can be especially strong during the first few weeks of treatment.
Can you take ibuprofen with mercaptopurine?
Interactions between your drugs No interactions were found between ibuprofen and mercaptopurine. However, this does not necessarily mean no interactions exist. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Can you drink alcohol while taking mercaptopurine?
Can I drink alcohol while I am taking mercaptopurine? Yes, it safe to drink alcohol while you are taking mercaptopurine, however large quantities of alcohol should be avoided.
What happens when you stop biologics?
Stopping biologics could make your arthritis flare. A relapse not only affects your quality of life, but could also lead to more joint-damaging inflammation, Ghosh says. If your symptoms haven’t improved on your biologic, or if you’re having side effects, you do have other options, Haberman says.
Can mercaptopurine cause fatigue?
Drugs known as immunomodulators — 6-mercaptopurine and azathioprine, in particular — can be associated with fatigue.
Can I touch mercaptopurine?
Mercaptopurine tablets or liquid should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat. You should handle these medicines with care, avoiding touching them where possible. If you are pregnant or think you could be pregnant, please discuss handling instructions with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.
How long does it take mercaptopurine to work?
Mercaptopurine is a slow-acting medication and can take between 3-6 months to work. This means you may need to take another medication, such as steroids, at the same time to control your symptoms.