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Purinethol and Alcohol/Food Interactions

There is 1 alcohol/food/lifestyle interaction with Purinethol (mercaptopurine).

Moderate

mercaptopurine food

Moderate Food Interaction

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Limited data suggest that food may decrease the oral bioavailability of 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP). In one study, the pharmacokinetics of 6-MP were studied on two separate occasions in seven patients. A single dose of 6-MP was administered after an overnight fast on one occasion and 15 minutes after a standard breakfast on the other. The authors reported that peak plasma levels of 6-MP were lower and took longer to reach following administration in the fed state. In addition, plasma levels were undetectable (less than 20 ng/mL) in two patients.

MANAGEMENT: Until more information is available regarding the effect of food on 6-MP absorption, it may be advisable to take 6-MP on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.

References

  1. Schmidt LE, Dalhoff K "Food-drug interactions." Drugs 62 (2002): 1481-502

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Purinethol drug interactions

There are 280 drug interactions with Purinethol (mercaptopurine).

Purinethol disease interactions

There are 5 disease interactions with Purinethol (mercaptopurine) which include:

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Drug Interaction Classification

These classifications are only a guideline. The relevance of a particular drug interaction to a specific individual is difficult to determine. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.
Major Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the benefit.
Moderate Moderately clinically significant. Usually avoid combinations; use it only under special circumstances.
Minor Minimally clinically significant. Minimize risk; assess risk and consider an alternative drug, take steps to circumvent the interaction risk and/or institute a monitoring plan.
Unknown No interaction information available.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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