Mercaptopurine Oral Tablet (MERCAPTOPURINE - ORAL)

Instructions

This medicine may be taken with or without food.

Swallow with a full glass (8 oz) of water unless your doctor gives you different instructions.

Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.

Drink extra water while on this medicine. Adults should try to drink 6-8 cups (48 to 64 oz.) of water every day.

This medicine can make you sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen or protective clothing when in sun.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting any other vitamins.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Always wash your hands after handling this medicine.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

Contact your doctor if you notice a change in the amount or darkening of your urine.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine. You may safely start breastfeeding 1 week after stopping treatment.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Women of childbearing age should have a negative pregnancy test before starting this medicine.

Women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 6 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Men with a female partner who is of childbearing age must use a condom and a second form of birth control during sexual activity while taking this medicine and for 3 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Women who are pregnant or in their childbearing years should not touch or handle this medicine. This medicine can be absorbed through the woman's skin and harm the unborn baby.

Call your doctor right away if you notice any unusual bleeding or bruising.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

• decreased appetite
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• hair loss
• nausea and vomiting

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

• bleeding or bruising
• fainting
• fever or chills
• pain in the joints
• signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
• mouth sores or irritation
• skin changes - a darker area with uneven edges or coloring
• light colored stool
• sweating at night
• vaginal bleeding or spotting between periods

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.