Purinethol (also known by the generic name Mercaptopurine) is part of a family of drugs known as purine antagonists. Purinethol is used to treat a specific kind of cancer known as Acute Lymphatic Leukemia or Acute Myelogenous Leukemia and works by interfering with the growth and spread of cells of these types of cancers. Purinethol is often given together with other cancer medications.
What are the side effects of using Purinethol (Mercaptopurine)?
Common side effects associated with the use of Purinethol may include loss of appetite, mild nausea, diarrhea, skin rash, and hair loss. More severe side effects of Purinethol may include severe stomach pain, nausea or vomiting; weakness, bruised or pale skin, abnormally colored urine or bowel movements, and skin yellowing. If any of these symptoms occur, stop using this drug immediately and call your doctor right away.
Allergic reactions may occur with Purinethol and include a sudden rash, itchiness or swelling of the skin, mouth, and throat, and difficulty breathing. If you suspect you are having an allergic reaction to this drug, contact a doctor immediately.
What precautions are advised when using Purinethol (Mercaptopurine)
Using Purinethol can lower your body’s ability to fight infections, so avoid people who have colds or the flu.
Certain drugs may interfere with the way Purinethol works in your body and may include drugs such as allopurinol, azathioprine, a blood thinner such as warfarin, aspirin, or aspirin-like drugs, cyclosporine, certain sulfa drugs, and any herbal or nutritional supplements you may be taking. You should always make sure your doctor knows what medications you are taking before you order any online Canada drugs.
Women who are pregnant or nursing should not use Purinethol unless specifically prescribed by their doctor. Because of the possibility of fetal death while using this drug, women of child bearing age are advised not to become pregnant while taking it. Side effects and potential risks of using Purinethol may be of a greater extent or magnitude in people over the age of 65 so caution should be exercised when treating this group of patients. Cautious use should also be considered when using this drug in patients with preexisting liver, kidney, or heart disease.
What happens with an overdose of Purinethol (Mercaptopurine)?
Overdoses of Purinethol will likely result in exacerbations of the above listed side effects. If you suspect an overdose, call your doctor, poison control, or provincial poison control center immediately. This summary is not all-inclusive; your pharmacist or an online Canadian pharmacy can provide you with more information about Purinethol (Mercaptopurine).
Valid US or Canadian prescriptions for Purinethol must be acquired by a doctor and can be filled at most pharmacies or through an online Canadian pharmacy. These pharmacies can offer you a substantial financial savings to your medication bills while offering the same quality and legality of the medications you purchase.