Merpurin

The information on this product's packaging is Turkish language only.

Uses
Merpurin (Mercaptopurine) is an anti-cancer drug indicated for the treatment of acute lymphocytic leukaemia. Its mechanism of action is inhibiting the multiplication and spread of abnormal cells. The active ingredient in these tablets is referred to as a purine antagonist, and it is generally used as a maintenance treatment for lymphoblastic leukaemia and myelogenous leukaemia, however some patients have also been treated with it for chronic myeloid leukaemia. Leukaemia causes excess amounts of immature white blood cells to be produced by the bone marrow, which means that there is a decreased amount of space for normal blood cells to be produced.

This medicine affects the RNA and DNA of the cancer cells, and effects their ability to multiply. As a result of this, the cancer cells grow abnormally, which leads to their eventual death. However, in addition to affecting abnormal cancerous cells, the medicine may also damage healthy cells. Your doctor will need to regularly monitor your condition while you are undergoing treatment with this medicine. Medical studies which focused on this medicine's effects if used for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis have also been conducted.

Dosage and Administration
Merpurin (Mercaptopurine) tablets each contain 50mg of the active ingredient. After hematologic remission is achieved, the doctor will most likely recommend the commencement of maintenance treatment. Generally speaking, the maintenance dosage with this medicine will be calculated based on the body weight of the patient. Doctors normally calculate the daily dosage at a rate of 1.5mg to 2.5mg per kilogram of body weight per day. Therefore, it is essential to follow the instructions of the doctor. This medicine is not normally used as the sole medicine for maintenance of remissions in patients with acute leukaemia.

Side effects
Treatment with Merpurin (Mercaptopurine) may cause some side effects, including:

• Headache
• Reduced appetite
• Vomiting and nausea
• Darker than normal skin
• Hair loss which is temporary

All reactions must be reported to your doctor. Other side effects which are serious in nature are also possible. You must see your doctor straight away if you notice symptoms indicative of an infection, abnormal bleeding, a painful sensation when urinating, fever, severe nausea or any other serious side effects that have not been listed here.

Precautions
This medicine is considered to be potent, and is only used in cases where the doctor is experienced with regard to all the risks associated with it.

Live vaccines must be avoided during treatment, and possibly for a 6 month period after treatment has stopped. This is because there is a risk of infection.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Merpurin (Mercaptopurine) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.