Mercaptopurine medication is the anhydrous form of mercaptopurine, a derivative of a thiopurine and antimetabolite that shows antineoplastic and immunosuppressive activities. This active component metabolites 6-this GMP and 6-this inosine monophosphate inhibit nucleotide interconversions and de novo purine synthesis. It also blocks the production of purine nucleotides and inhibiting DNA synthesis. It is converted to 6-methylmercaptopurine ribonucleoside by 6-thiopurine methyltransferase.

Class of Drugs – A Chemotherapy drug

Molecular Formula – C₅H₄N₄S

Molecular Weight – 152.18 g/mol

Working: This chemotherapy drug Mercaptopurine works by damaging the RNA or DNA that helps the cell for the multiplication of itself by mutations. If the cancer cells are unable to divide, they wear off. The faster the cells are dividing, the more likely it is that chemotherapy will kill the cells. This process causes shrinking of the cancer cells.

Uses: This medication is approved for the treatment of a certain type of cancer like acute lymphocytic leukemia. It is a chemotherapy drug that slows down or inhibits the growth of cancer cells. Mercaptopurine can be used in children and adults after consulting with the doctor.

Popular Brands and Dosages: Mentioned medication is used in the treatment of a certain type of cancer. It is available for oral consumption. It is used in a popular brand medicine as given below:

• Purinethol: 50 mg

Consume plenty of fluids while consuming this medication, it may help decrease the risk of certain side effects like kidney or liver problems.