Purinethol ^*

Purinethol (generic name: mercaptopurine) is used to treat some types of blood cancer and support the management of autoimmune diseases.

Mercaptopurine belongs to a class of drugs known as thiopurines, which are designed to slow the growth of specific cells in the body. In many cases, it is used to help reduce the number of abnormal white blood cells in people with leukemia or to control inflammation in chronic digestive conditions.

Mercaptopurine is considered an immunosuppressant because it affects the immune system’s function. This makes it useful not only in controlling abnormal cell growth but also in treating immune-related disorders. The exact treatment plan depends on the individual’s health condition, how their body responds, and the guidance of their medical team.

The most common use of Purinethol is in people with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), a fast-growing form of cancer where the bone marrow produces too many immature white blood cells. These cells build up and interfere with the production of normal blood cells. Purinethol helps by lowering the number of these abnormal cells, which helps restore balance in the body’s blood production system. It is often used as part of a longer-term treatment plan that may include other cancer-fighting medicines.

In addition to cancer treatment, Purinethol is used in the care of people with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. These are types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in which the immune system attacks the lining of the digestive tract, causing symptoms such as pain, diarrhea, and bleeding. In these cases, Purinethol works by calming down the immune response, reducing inflammation, and helping to maintain long-term symptom control. It plays a key role in both cancer treatment and in controlling chronic inflammation when standard therapies are not sufficient.

Caution

Purinethol may cause miscarriage or birth defects. Effective birth control is advised during and after treatment. If preganancy occurs while taking Purenithol, consult a healthcare provider immediately.

Dosage

Purinethol is typically used over long periods and is part of a carefully managed treatment plan. Its use is based on well-established medical experience and is supported by regular medical checkups to ensure it is working effectively and safely.

Be sure to follow the instructions on the box. Dosing can change, and it is important not to follow previous regimes without referring to the label.

Purinethol dosing varies based on the condition and the patient’s weight. For acute leukemia, the typical dose is 1.5 mg/kg once daily, taken at bedtime to reduce stomach upset. In inflammatory bowel disease, the dose is initially lower (e.g., 0.5 mg/kg daily) and adjusted based on the body’s response. Tablets should be taken with water, at the same time each day, and can be swallowed whole or crushed and mixed with water for anyone with swallowing issues.

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless the next dose is due within a few hours. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped; doubling doses is unsafe.

Storage

Purinethol tablets should be stored at room temperature (59–86°F / 15–30°C), away from moisture and direct light and should be kept in their original container, tightly closed.