Mercaptopurine

Definition

Mercaptopurine is a chemotherapy drug used to treat certain types of cancer by interfering with DNA and RNA synthesis. It is primarily utilized in treating acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mercaptopurine is classified as an antimetabolite chemotherapeutic agent.
2. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of purine nucleotides, essential components of DNA and RNA.
3. Common side effects include bone marrow suppression, liver toxicity, and gastrointestinal disturbances.
4. Mercaptopurine can interact with other medications such as allopurinol, necessitating dosage adjustments.
5. Patients on mercaptopurine often require regular blood tests to monitor for toxicity and therapeutic levels.

Review Questions

• What type of cancer is mercaptopurine primarily used to treat?
• How does mercaptopurine function at the molecular level?
• What are some common side effects associated with mercaptopurine?

Related terms

Antimetabolite: A class of drugs that interfere with DNA and RNA synthesis.

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): A type of cancer that affects white blood cells.

Allopurinol: A medication used to treat gout that can interact with mercaptopurine.