Mercaptopurine

Mercaptopurine (also called 6-MP or by its brand name Purinethol®) is an immunosuppressive drug used to treat leukemia. It is also used for pediatric non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, polycythemia vera, and psoriatic arthritis. It may also be used to treat inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis).

Side-effects

Some of the side effects of taking Mercaptopurine might include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, weakness, skin rash, darkening of the skin, or hair loss. Serious side effects include mouth sores, fever, sore throat, easy bruising or bleeding, pinpoint red spots on the skin, yellowing of eyes or skin, dark urine, painful or difficult urination. Unlikely but serious side effects include: black or tarry stools (melena), bloody stools, and bloody urine.

Symptoms of allergic reaction to Mercaptopurine include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing.

Precautions

Mercaptopurine can lower the body's ability to fight off infection. Those taking mercaptopurine should get permission from a doctor in order to receive immunizations and vaccinations. It is also recommended that while on the drug one should avoid those who have recently received oral polio vaccine. This drug is not recommended during pregnancy.