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Mertabto 10mg Tablet
Last updated on 31 Mar 2026 | 09:30 AM (IST)
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Introduction
Mertabto 10mg Tablet is a prescription anti-cancer medicine that contains Mercaptopurine as its active ingredient. It belongs to a group of medicines called purine antagonists and is primarily used for managing acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). This condition is a fast-growing type of blood cancer where the bone marrow produces too many immature white blood cells (lymphoblasts), disrupting normal blood function.
If you are receiving this treatment, inform your doctor if you have a liver disorder, kidney problem, or any known intolerance to dairy products. This tablet contains lactose, so those with lactose intolerance should use it with caution. Your doctor will regularly monitor your liver enzymes, uric acid levels, and complete blood count to prevent side effects or complications during treatment. Elevated uric acid can strain the kidneys, so dose adjustments might be needed.
Vaccinations should be avoided during this treatment unless specifically advised. Live vaccines like measles, mumps, rubella, and yellow fever can cause serious infections in individuals receiving immunosuppressive therapy. Make sure to inform your doctor before taking any vaccine.
Uses
- Treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL)
How It Works
Mertabto Mercaptopurine Tablets work by blocking the formation of DNA and RNA in cancer cells, which stops their growth and spread. It also alters immune responses, helping to destroy abnormal cells. Mertabto Tablet 10's is usually given as part of a combination chemotherapy regimen to enhance its effect.
Interaction of Mertabto 10mg Tablet with other drugs
Always inform your doctor about any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, supplements, or herbal products you're taking. Drugs like allopurinol, warfarin, or certain immunosuppressants can interact with Mertabto 10 Tablet and may require dose adjustments.
Storage Information
- Store Mertabto 10mg Tablet in the original package at room temperature (15°C to 25°C).
- Keep it out of reach from children.
How to Take it
Your doctor will decide the dose and duration of Mertabto 10mg Tablet based on the disease condition and other factors. Always take this medicine as prescribed by your doctor. Take the tablet at the same time everyday, with or without food. Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet. Swallow the whole tablet with water. You must take these tablets at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after having milk or dairy products.
Safety Advice for Mertabto 10mg Tablet
Breast Feeding
This medication passes into breast milk and could harm the nursing infant. Avoid breastfeeding while on this treatment.
Alcohol
Alcohol can interfere with the effectiveness of Mertabto Tablet and may worsen liver-related side effects. It is best to avoid alcohol during treatment.
Liver
Mertabto 10 Tablet can increase liver enzymes. Your doctor will conduct frequent liver function tests. Inform them if you have pre-existing liver issues.
Lungs
There is limited data on its safety in patients with lung disease. Notify your physician if you have a chronic lung condition.
Driving
This medicine may cause dizziness or affect your alertness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you feel unwell after taking it.
Pregnancy
The use of Mertabto Tablet is not recommended for pregnant women as it may cause fetal harm. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning for pregnancy during the treatment.
Side Effects of Mertabto 10mg Tablet
Common:
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Nausea or vomiting
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Anemia (low red blood cells)
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Increased risk of infections
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Mouth ulcers or sore throat
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Low white blood cell and platelet count
Serious:
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Severe liver damage or jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes)
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Unusual bruising or bleeding
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Persistent fever or chills
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Severe fatigue or weakness
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Signs of allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing)
Quick Tips
- Mertabto 10 Tablet 10's should be taken on an empty stomach, away from dairy.
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Stay well-hydrated and follow your doctor’s advice on regular blood tests.
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Avoid direct sunlight. Use sunscreen and protective clothing during treatment.
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Inform your doctor if you notice fever, yellowing of the eyes, or easy bruising.
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Do not get live vaccines like MMR or yellow fever during therapy.
FAQs about Mertabto 10mg Tablet
Q1.
What happens if you take Mertabto 10mg Tablet with milk?
Taking Mertabto 10mg Tablet with milk may decrease the absorption and effectiveness of the medication. This is because the calcium in milk can bind to mercaptopurine, forming an insoluble complex that reduces the amount of the drug that can be absorbed by the body.
Q2.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Mertabto 10mg Tablet?
It is generally advised to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Mertabto 10mg Tablet, as alcohol can increase the risk of liver damage.
Q3.
What is the complication of Mertabto 10mg Tablet?
Mertabto 10mg Tablet can also cause more serious complications, such as bone marrow suppression, which can lead to decreased production of blood cells and an increased risk of infections, bleeding, and anaemia.
Q4.
Which enzyme is responsible for metabolism of Mertabto 10mg Tablet?
The metabolism of Mertabto 10mg Tablet involves several enzymes, including thiopurine S-methyltransferase (TPMT), and xanthine oxidase (XO). Among these enzymes, TPMT is primarily responsible for the metabolism of mercaptopurine. TPMT converts mercaptopurine into 6-methylmercaptopurine, which is then further metabolised into inactive compounds that are excreted from the body.
Q5.
What is the recommended dose of this drug?
For the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), the recommended dose for adults and children is approximately 1.5 to 2.5 milligrams per kilogram of body weight taken orally once a day, usually in combination with other chemotherapy medications.
Q6.
What you should know while taking Mertabto 10mg Tablet?
You should have caution while taking this Mertabto 10mg Tablet, it can cause liver problems like jaundice, hepatomegaly and anorexia.
Fact Box of Mertabto 10mg Tablet
Molecule name: Mercaptopurine | Therapeutic class: Anticancer |
Pharmacological class: Purine antagonists | Indications: Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia |
References
- Aspen Pharma Trading Limited, Electronic medicines compendium (emc), [ Revised on August 2019] (Accessed: April 6, 2023), https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.4655.pdf
- Purinethol® (mercaptopurine) 50-mg scored tablets caution. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/009053s032lbl.pdf (Accessed: April 6, 2023).
- Mercaptopurine - HPRA. Available at: https://www.hpra.ie/img/uploaded/swedocuments/792acbf1-e5ab-4598-8f95-30d1e2ddffcc.pdf (Accessed: April 6, 2023).
- Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Cytotoxic agents, 12th edition, 2011, 1701 - 1702.
- KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Anticancer drugs, 7th edition, 2013, 863.
Disclaimer
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Author Details
Written By
P. Thirumal Reddy
B. Pharm
Reviewed By
Dr. Tejashwin Adiga
MBBS
Last updated : 31 Mar 2026 | 09:30 AM (IST)
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