Mercaptopurine is a chemotherapy treatment useful in treating remission in acute lymphocytic leukemia, as well as treating Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. This product is suitable for use in all ages.

Mercaptopurine is the non-proprietary name for this medication; more commonly patients buy mercaptopurine under the brand name Purinethol, among other, less widely-recognized names. Regardless of the brand it's sold under, it's currently only possible to buy mercaptopurine in 50 mg tablets. For young children or those who are unable to swallow tablets, an oral solution is available.

As an antimetabolite, the medication is very similar to a naturally-occurring substance found in cells; cells will incorporate mercaptopurine as well. Once in a cell, it disrupts the process that causes cellular replication.

While disrupting cellular replication is useful to individuals suffering from leukemia or autoimmune disorders, the medication does not, unfortunately, distinguish between cancer cells and healthy cells. Patients taking mercaptopurine will almost certainly experience some side effects.

This is a potent medication. Patients should not buy mercaptopurine without a diagnose of acute lymphocytic leukemia, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or other autoimmune disorder. Do not buy mercaptopurine to treat central nervous system leukemia, acute myelogenous leukemia, or solid tumors; the medication provides no benefit in these applications. Patients should work closely with a doctor for the duration of treatment.

Taking Mercaptopurine

Mercaptopurine comes in 50 mg tablets; patients who handle tablets should wash their hands thoroughly afterward, as the medication can be irritating to skin and eyes. In all conditions, tablets are taken once per day, usually over the long term (several months to years). Extra fluids should be consumed during treatment to help prevent kidney damage.

For leukemia, dosage ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 mg per kg of body weight per day. Tablets should be taken on an empty stomach, one hour before or two hours following a meal; the medication is better absorbed when taken on an empty stomach.

Patients who buy mercaptopurine to treat autoimmune conditions generally take 1/2 to 1/4 of the amount given for leukemia. In these cases a doctor may recommend taking with milk or a snack.

There are a number of variables that can influence dosage; age, weight, and other medications being taken are big factors. In leukemia, mercaptopurine is usually given with other medications, particularly Trexall (methotrexate). Both of these medications cause similar side effects, and both are somewhat dose-dependent in side effect severity.

Regardless of what it's treating, patients are strongly encouraged to attend regular doctor checkups to ensure the medication is working; some individuals are resistant to mercaptopurine. Regular doctor checkups will also monitor for potentially-developing side effects.

Warnings, Precautions, & Side Effects

Side effects from mercaptopurine are, unfortunately, common, though it is somewhat dose-dependent and those taking it for autoimmune disorders are less likely to experience them---or at least not as severely---than those taking it for leukemia. Most commonly reported are:

• Nausea/vomiting
• Appetite loss
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Darkening of skin
• Hair loss
• Mouth sores
• Painful and/or difficult urination
• Easier bleeding or bruising
• Red pinpoints on the skin

Mercaptopurine, and methotrexate often given along with it, can both reduce immune function. Do not have immunizations/vaccinations for the duration of treatment without explicit doctor permission; likewise avoid individuals who have recently had live vaccinations.

The medication can also increase risk of bleeding. Use caution when shaving, brushing teeth, and so forth. Avoid contact sports or other activities where injury is likely. Any unexplained or excessive bleeding or bruising---such as nosebleeds---should be brought to the attention of a doctor. Internal bleeding, vomiting blood, coughing up blood, or blood in stools, should receive prompt medical attention.

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Kiwi Drug clients will need a prescription to buy mercaptopurine. If you don't have one, our online doctor may be able to issue one to qualifying patients---simply begin the checkout process and answer the questions on the following screen. There is no additional charge for our online doctor services.

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