Mercaptopurina Zentiva (Mercaptopurine Monohydrate)

Mercaptopurine is a purine analog that blocks de novo purine synthesis and is incorporated into DNA and RNA. This interferes with nucleic acid formation, causing cytotoxicity in rapidly dividing cells and providing immunosuppression, which underlies its effectiveness in cancer and inflammatory disorders.

The dose is individualized by the prescribing clinician based on disease type, patient age, weight, TPMT activity and laboratory values. Typical regimens range from 50‑100 mg/m² per day for leukemia and 1‑3 mg/kg per day for inflammatory bowel disease, but exact dosing must be set by a qualified health professional.

Mercaptopurine is classified as Pregnancy Category D because it has demonstrated fetal risk and should be avoided unless the benefit clearly outweighs the risk. It is excreted in breast milk and may harm a nursing infant, so breastfeeding is generally not recommended during therapy.

Submit an enquiry on the product page at gnhindia.com, specifying the required quantity. GNH India works with hospitals, pharmacies and procurement teams worldwide, verifies trade or institutional credentials, and then provides pricing, availability, shipping details (including any temperature requirements) and the necessary import documentation.

The primary alternative is azathioprine, another thiopurine. Both are metabolised to 6‑mercaptopurine, but mercaptopurine offers more predictable pharmacokinetics and allows direct dosing. Azathioprine may cause higher gastrointestinal intolerance, while mercaptopurine requires TPMT testing to reduce myelosuppression risk. Choice depends on clinical context and patient tolerance.

Mercaptopurina Zentiva should be stored at ambient temperature, below 25 °C, in the original container to protect from moisture and light. Keep the product out of reach of children and do not use if the packaging is damaged or the tablets appear discoloured.

The medication is supplied as oral tablets and is taken by mouth with or without food, as directed by the prescriber. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or split unless instructed. Adherence to the prescribed schedule and regular monitoring of blood counts are essential for safe use.

The most critical adverse events include severe bone‑marrow suppression leading to neutropenia, anemia or thrombocytopenia, hepatotoxicity with marked liver enzyme elevation, pancreatitis, and rare but life‑threatening hypersensitivity reactions. Patients should promptly report fever, persistent fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain or any signs of infection.

Contraindications include patients with known hypersensitivity to mercaptopurine, those with severe hepatic impairment, active uncontrolled infections, and pregnant women unless the benefit outweighs the risk. Individuals with deficient TPMT activity are at high risk for toxicity and should avoid the drug or receive dose adjustments under specialist supervision.