Brand Names

How to Use

Use this drug only as directed by your family doctor . Do not use more or less of it and do not use it more often than your family doctor ordered. The exact amount of drug you need has been carefully worked out. Taking too much may increase the risk of side effects, while taking too little may not improve your condition.

Mercaptopurine is often given together with certain other medication. If you are using a combination of medication, make sure that you take each one at the right time and do not mix them. Ask your health care professional to help you plan a way to remember to take your medication at the right times.

While you are using mercaptopurine, your family doctor may want you to drink extra fluids so that you will pass more urine. This will help prevent kidney problems and keep your kidneys working well.

If you vomit shortly after taking a dose of mercaptopurine, check with your family doctor. You will be told whether to take the dose again or to wait until the next scheduled dose.

Dosage

Missed dose If you miss a dose of this drug, do not take the missed dose at all and do not double the next one. Instead, go back to your regular dosing schedule and check with your family doctor.

Storage To store this drug:

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store away from heat and direct light.
• Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. Heat or moisture may cause the drug to break down.
• Do not keep outdated drug or drug no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded drug is out of the reach of children.