Mercaptopurine is an anticancer medication used in the treatment of leukemia.
It works by interfering with the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA) production, hence impeding the growth of leukemic cells.
Possible side effects from Mercaptopurine and their management are listed in the following table. Always inform the doctor if your child experiences any side effects, so that the necessary monitoring may be conducted. Seek immediate medical attention if side effects are serious and urgent (refer to “Management”).
White blood cells protect the body by fighting bacteria (germs) that cause infection.
When the number of white blood cells is low, your child will be more susceptible to infections and may become very ill from these infections.
To help prevent infection:
Seek medical help immediately if your child experiences any of the following:
Low platelet counts
Platelets are important for blood clotting. With low platelets, your child may bruise or bleed (for e.g. gums or nose) more easily than usual.
Be safety conscious.
Brush teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Low red blood cell counts
Red blood cell transport oxygen to body cells. Your child may feel tired or lethargic if red blood cell is low.
Ensure child gets ample rest
Liver problems
Mild, transient changes to liver function may occur
Your doctor will monitor liver function using blood tests during therapy, and make adjustment to the therapy if necessary.
In the rare event that yellowing of skin and/ or eye(s), dark coloured urine, pale coloured stools, or pain in the upper stomach occurs, seek medical help immediately.
Skin reaction
Mild skin rash, hyperpigmentation of skin may occur.
Avoid excessive exposure to sunlight. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing i.e. long-sleeved tops.
Seek medical help immediately in case of persistent rash or allergic reaction: itchy rash, blistered, peeling skin, swelling in face/ lips/ tongue/ throat, tightness in chest or throat, trouble breathing.
Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite or diarrhea may rarely occur.
Hair loss may rarely occur.
Use gentle shampoo and soft hairbrush.
Mercaptopurine should be taken once daily in the evening, at the same time every day.
Mercaptopurine is available in tablet form.
To maximise absorption of Mercaptopurine, it should preferably be taken on empty stomach, i.e. either 1 hour before or 2 hours after food. However, if gastric discomfort is experienced whilst on Mercaptopurine, it may be taken with food.
Avoid milk or milk products 1 hour before and 2 hours after taking Mercaptopurine as milk products will affect the absorption of Mercaptopurine. Milk or milk products may be consumed at other times of the day.
If dose prescribed is less than one tablet (for e.g. half tablet or quarter tablet), use a tablet-cutter to cut the tablets in a still-air room. If your child is unable to swallow the tablet, soak the tablet in small volume of water and allow it to dissolve before administering the dose.
Your doctor may change the dosage of Mercaptopurine depending on blood tests results. Always follow the doctor’s instructions strictly, and record the dose taken daily on the form given to you. Do not stop taking Mercaptopurine unless you are told to do so by your doctor. Do not take more or less than required unless instructed.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearer to the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.
Do not repeat dose if vomiting occurs after dose is administered, wait until the next scheduled dose. Contact the pharmacist or doctor if you repeatedly miss doses due to vomiting.
Please refer to Patient’s Information Leaflet on “Safe Handling of Oral Cytotoxic Medications” for details.
Do not take this medication if your child is allergic to Mercaptopurine.
Do not give your child any other medications or herbal products without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. Some medication or food may reduce Mercaptopurine efficacy, or increase incidence of side effects. These include:
Disclaimer: The list is not exhaustive. When in doubt, please consult the doctor or pharmacist.
