Are you taking Mercaptopurine? Are you aware of the dangers of combining Mercaptopurine with certain foods, herbs, or alcohol? Drug-food-interactions are seldom discussed but can lead to undesirable side effects and potentially diminish the efficacy of the medication.
De Lemos, M. L., Hamata, L., Jennings, S., & Leduc, T. (2007). Interaction between mercaptopurine and milk.
Go to source).
Wikidoc: Mercaptopurine
Go to source).
References
1. De Lemos, M. L., Hamata, L., Jennings, S., & Leduc, T. (2007). Interaction between mercaptopurine and milk. Journal of oncology pharmacy practice: official publication of the International Society of Oncology Pharmacy Practitioners,13 (4), 237-240. doi:10.1177/1078155207080802https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18045784/
2. Wikidoc: Mercaptopurine. https://www.wikidoc.org/index.php/Mercaptopurine#Precautions_with_Alcohol
3. National Library of Medicine: Mercaptopurine MedlinePlus Drug Information. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682653.html
Mercaptopurine Interactions with Food and Herbs
Dairy products: Avoid dairy products such as milk while taking mercaptopurine since dairy products contain xanthine oxidase, an enzyme that may reduce the bioavailability of the drug (1✔ ✔Trusted SourceDe Lemos, M. L., Hamata, L., Jennings, S., & Leduc, T. (2007). Interaction between mercaptopurine and milk.
Go to source).
Mercaptopurine Interactions with Alcohol
Drinking a small amount of alcohol along with mercaptopurine does not affect the efficacy of the drug (2✔ ✔Trusted SourceWikidoc: Mercaptopurine
Go to source).
When and How to Take Mercaptopurine
- Mercaptopurine is available in the form of a tablet or suspension to be taken orally (by mouth).
- You will usually be advised to take it once a day on an empty stomach.
- Follow the directions exactly as given on the prescription label. Take the medication at the same time every day for better results.
- Do not exceed or skip a dose. Even if you miss it, take the medication as soon as you remember (3✔ ✔Trusted Source
National Library of Medicine: Mercaptopurine MedlinePlus Drug Information.
Go to source).
References
1. De Lemos, M. L., Hamata, L., Jennings, S., & Leduc, T. (2007). Interaction between mercaptopurine and milk. Journal of oncology pharmacy practice: official publication of the International Society of Oncology Pharmacy Practitioners,13 (4), 237-240. doi:10.1177/1078155207080802https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18045784/
2. Wikidoc: Mercaptopurine. https://www.wikidoc.org/index.php/Mercaptopurine#Precautions_with_Alcohol
3. National Library of Medicine: Mercaptopurine MedlinePlus Drug Information. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682653.html
