Tuesday, June 11, 2013

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Purinethol Oral Uses and How to Use


IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

Table of Contents

Generic Name: MERCAPTOPURINE - ORAL
Pronounced: (mer-KAP-toe-PURE-een)

Purinethol Oral Uses

This medication is used with other drugs to treat a certain type of cancer (acute lymphocytic leukemia). Mercaptopurine belongs to a class of drugs known as purine antagonists. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.

Talk to the doctor about the risks and benefits of mercaptopurine, especially when used in children and young adults.

How To Use Purinethol Oral

Take this medication by mouth with or without food with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters), usually once daily or as directed by your doctor. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Doing so may help decrease the risk of side effects (e.g., kidney stones).

The dosage is based on your body weight, medical condition and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and the risk of serious side effects may be increased.

Since this drug may be absorbed through the skin and lungs, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication or breathe the dust from the tablets. Properly discard any unused medication. Ask your pharmacist for details.


CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
Information last revised April 2011 Copyright(c) 2011 First DataBank, Inc.