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Mercaptopurine 25 mg/mL Oral Suspension

FDA-approved generic
Dose form
Suspension
Active ingredients
Mercaptopurine

Mercaptopurine 25 mg/mL Oral Suspension is a liquid dosage form where mercaptopurine is uniformly dispersed in a liquid medium, ensuring a homogeneous mixture for precise administration. This formulation is primarily used in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and other related hematologic malignancies.

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For prescribers
Prescription details
RxThis formula
Dose formSee below
Quantity____
SigAs directed by prescriber
Refills____
PharmacyBayview Pharmacy, Warwick RI, NCPDP 4106882
Copy prescription detailsOrder form
Controlled substance: e-prescribe (EPCS) from your EHR. Faxed and phoned prescriptions cannot be accepted for this preparation.
Send it from your EHR, or fax to (401) 284-4506. How to e-prescribe this formula
Licensed to fill prescriptions for patients in RI, MA, CT, NJ, NH, FL, ME and PA. New York patients are served on a limited basis while nonresident registration is pending.
To prescribe, you must be a verified prescriber.
To prescribe, you must be in a state where we hold an active out-of-state pharmacy license.
Starting at
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Requires a prescription from your own provider. Bayview is a pharmacy and does not prescribe.
Ships within 1 to 2 business days after pharmacist verification
HSA and FSA eligible
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Licensed to fill prescriptions for patients in RI, MA, CT, NJ, NH, FL, ME and PA. New York patients are served on a limited basis while nonresident registration is pending.

For prescribersSign in for prescription details and order forms.
Compounded preparations are prepared by Bayview pursuant to a prescription for an individual patient. They are not FDA-approved and have not been evaluated by FDA for safety or effectiveness.
Mercaptopurine
Suspension
Service area

Can we ship this formula to your state?

Bayview fills prescriptions for patients in Connecticut, Florida, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island. New York patients are served on a limited basis while nonresident pharmacy registration is pending.

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Formula Information

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Drug Interactions

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Mercaptopurine 25 mg/mL Oral Suspension is a liquid dosage form designed to provide a homogeneous mixture for administration, ensuring consistent dosing and ease of use, particularly for patients who may have difficulty swallowing tablets. This formulation is primarily used in the treatment of certain types of leukemia, such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), and other conditions as determined by a healthcare provider. It is crucial for both patients and prescribers to be aware of potential drug interactions that may affect the efficacy and safety of mercaptopurine therapy.

One of the most significant interactions occurs with allopurinol, a medication commonly used to treat gout and hyperuricemia. Allopurinol can inhibit the metabolism of mercaptopurine, leading to increased levels of the drug in the body and a heightened risk of toxicity. If concurrent use is necessary, a substantial reduction in the mercaptopurine dose is often required, and close monitoring for signs of toxicity is essential.

Another important interaction is with warfarin, an anticoagulant used to prevent blood clots. Mercaptopurine may alter the anticoagulant effects of warfarin, necessitating more frequent monitoring of the International Normalized Ratio (INR) to ensure therapeutic levels are maintained without increasing the risk of bleeding or clotting.

Patients taking other immunosuppressive or myelosuppressive agents, such as azathioprine, should be closely monitored, as the combined effects can lead to an increased risk of bone marrow suppression, resulting in leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, or anemia. This necessitates regular blood count monitoring and potential dose adjustments.

Concomitant use of mercaptopurine with certain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk of gastrointestinal toxicity. Patients should be advised to use NSAIDs cautiously and under the guidance of their healthcare provider.

Additionally, the use of live vaccines should be avoided during treatment with mercaptopurine, as the immunosuppressive effects of the drug can reduce vaccine efficacy and increase the risk of infection. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider before receiving any vaccinations.

It is also important to consider the interaction with certain antibiotics, such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, which can potentiate the myelosuppressive effects of mercaptopurine. This combination should be used with caution, and patients should be monitored for signs of bone marrow suppression.

Patients and prescribers should be aware of these potential interactions and manage them appropriately to ensure the safe and appropriate use of mercaptopurine 25 mg/mL Oral Suspension. Regular communication with healthcare providers and routine monitoring are key components of managing these interactions. If you have any questions or concerns about drug interactions with this formulation, please reach out to us for further guidance.

How Does it Work

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Mercaptopurine 25 mg/mL Oral Suspension is a liquid dosage form designed to provide a uniform and homogeneous mixture of the active ingredient, mercaptopurine, dispersed throughout a liquid medium. This formulation is particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty swallowing tablets or require precise dosing adjustments, such as pediatric patients or those with specific metabolic conditions. The liquid suspension allows for easy administration and accurate dose measurement, ensuring that patients receive the exact amount of medication prescribed by their healthcare provider.

Mercaptopurine is an antimetabolite medication that works by interfering with the synthesis of purine nucleotides, which are essential building blocks of DNA and RNA. By inhibiting the formation of these nucleotides, mercaptopurine disrupts the proliferation of rapidly dividing cells, such as cancerous cells in leukemia. By targeting the abnormal cells, mercaptopurine helps to reduce the number of cancerous cells in the body, thereby aiding in the management and potential remission of the disease.

In addition to its use in leukemia, mercaptopurine is also employed in the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. In these conditions, mercaptopurine acts as an immunosuppressant, modulating the immune system's response to reduce inflammation and prevent flare-ups. By decreasing the activity of the immune system, mercaptopurine helps to maintain remission and improve the quality of life for patients with IBD.

The oral suspension form of mercaptopurine provides several advantages over traditional tablet forms. It allows for flexible dosing, which is crucial for tailoring treatment to individual patient needs, especially in pediatric populations where weight-based dosing is often required. The liquid form also enhances patient compliance, as it is easier to swallow and can be mixed with food or beverages if necessary, making it more palatable for those who may have aversions to taking medication.

For prescribers, the mercaptopurine oral suspension offers a reliable and customizable option for managing patients with leukemia or inflammatory bowel diseases. It is important to monitor patients regularly for potential side effects, such as bone marrow suppression, liver toxicity, and gastrointestinal disturbances, and adjust the dosage accordingly. Regular blood tests are recommended to ensure the medication is working effectively and to mitigate any adverse effects.

If you have any questions about Mercaptopurine 25 mg/mL Oral Suspension or its use in treating specific disease states, please reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. Our team of compounding pharmacists is here to provide you with the information and support you need to ensure the best possible outcomes for your patients.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is Mercaptopurine 25 mg/mL Oral Suspension?

Mercaptopurine 25 mg/mL Oral Suspension is a liquid dosage form where the active ingredient, mercaptopurine, is uniformly dispersed in a liquid medium, creating a homogeneous mixture for easy administration.

How should I store Mercaptopurine Oral Suspension?

Store Mercaptopurine Oral Suspension in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It is important to keep it out of reach of children and to follow any specific storage instructions provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider.

How do I measure the correct dose of Mercaptopurine Oral Suspension?

Use a calibrated oral syringe or dosing cup to measure the exact dose of Mercaptopurine Oral Suspension as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not use household spoons as they may not provide an accurate measurement.

Can Mercaptopurine Oral Suspension be mixed with food or drinks?

It is best to follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding the administration of Mercaptopurine Oral Suspension. Some medications can be mixed with certain foods or drinks to improve taste, but this should only be done if advised by a healthcare professional.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Mercaptopurine Oral Suspension?

If you miss a dose of Mercaptopurine Oral Suspension, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Are there any side effects associated with Mercaptopurine Oral Suspension?

Like all medications, Mercaptopurine Oral Suspension may cause side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Can I take Mercaptopurine Oral Suspension if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Mercaptopurine may not be safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is crucial to discuss with your healthcare provider the potential risks and benefits before starting this medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How does Mercaptopurine Oral Suspension work?

Mercaptopurine works by interfering with the growth of cancer cells, slowing or stopping their growth and spread in the body. It is commonly used in the treatment of certain types of leukemia.

What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction to Mercaptopurine Oral Suspension?

If you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention. Inform your healthcare provider about any known allergies before starting the medication.

Can Mercaptopurine Oral Suspension interact with other medications?

Yes, Mercaptopurine Oral Suspension can interact with other medications. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements, to avoid potential interactions.

About this compounded preparation

This formulation is compounded by Bayview Pharmacy on a prescriber's order for an individual patient. It is not an FDA-approved drug product, and the FDA has not evaluated it for safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing quality.

A valid prescription is required. Availability depends on Bayview's licensure in your state. This page is general information, not medical advice. Discuss your situation with a licensed healthcare provider.

Formulas and/or material listed are not to be interpreted as a promise, guarantee or claim of therapeutic efficacy or safety. The information contained herein is not intended to replace or substitute for conventional medical care, or encourage its abandonment. Every patient is unique, and formulas should be adjusted to meet their individual needs.

No compounded medications are reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.
For prescribers

How to e-prescribe this formula

Controlled substance: e-prescribe only (EPCS). Faxed, phoned, and handwritten prescriptions cannot be filled. Rhode Island law (R.I. Gen. Laws § 21-28-3.18) requires Schedule II to V prescriptions to be transmitted electronically.
1

Find Bayview in your EHR's pharmacy directory

Search by NCPDP 4106882, or by name and ZIP: Bayview Pharmacy, Warwick, RI 02886. Select it as the destination pharmacy and save it as a favorite. Click any value to copy it.

NCPDP4106882NPI1750455143Address3844 Post Rd, Warwick, RI 02886Phone(401) 284-4505Fax(401) 284-4506
2

Enter the formula as a compound

Compounded preparations have no NDC, so this formula will not appear in your EHR's drug search. Use your system's compound, non-formulary, or free-text prescription entry and name the preparation exactly as written in step 3. If your EHR forces you to pick a listed drug, pick the closest entry for the active ingredient and put the full formula in the prescription body (the Sig or directions field), not in Notes to Pharmacy.

Compounded preparations have no NDC and will not appear in your drug search. For EPCS to validate, select a drug entry your EHR recognizes as controlled, usually the bulk powder entry for the active ingredient (for example Ketamine (bulk) powder, not a branded product), then put the full formula from step 3 in the prescription body. A free-text entry that does not validate as controlled will be rejected by your EPCS module.

3

Copy the prescription details

RxFormula name
Dose formDose form
Quantity________
SigAs directed by prescriber
Refills____
PharmacyBayview Pharmacy, Warwick RI, NCPDP 4106882
Copy prescription details

Quantity and directions are starting points for this dose form, not treatment recommendations. Dosing remains the prescriber's responsibility.

4

Send it

Transmit from your EHR. For this non-controlled preparation we also accept fax to (401) 284-4506 and phoned orders at (401) 284-4505. Order forms are on the formulation pages and in the prescriber portal.

Transmit with two-factor authentication through your EPCS-enabled EHR. No order form is offered for this preparation; e-prescribing guides for our controlled preparations are on the formulation pages.

Do not use Notes to Pharmacy for the formula. Some EHRs keep that field internal and never transmit it. A prescription that arrives without the formula is delayed while we call your office.

Licensed to dispense in RI, MA, CT, NJ, NH, FL, ME, and PA; New York is served on a limited basis while nonresident registration is pending. Compounded preparations are not FDA-approved. A valid prescription is required. Full guide, including steps by EHR: How to e-prescribe to Bayview. Questions about this formula: call (401) 284-4505.

Mercaptopurine 25 mg/mL Oral Suspension
Suspension
30 mL
controlled

Take orally

Once daily