mercaptopurine /mərkap′təpyo̅o̅″rēn/ , an antineoplastic and immunosuppressive drug; a purine antimetabolite. Also called 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP). ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed in the treatment of malignant neoplastic diseases, especially as maintenance therapy for acute lymphocytic leukemia. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the more severe adverse effects are bone marrow depression and acute GI disturbances, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomatitis.
