Biopurin 50mg Tablet (Mercaptopurine): Complete Medicine Guide
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Fever, chills, or sore throat (signs of infection)
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Severe abdominal pain (possible pancreatitis)
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Severe diarrhea or vomiting
- Blood in urine or stool
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is biopurin 50mg tablet used for?
This medicine contains Mercaptopurine 50mg, an oral chemotherapy agent used primarily for acute lymphoblastic leukemia and sometimes for inflammatory bowel disease. It works by inhibiting DNA and RNA synthesis in rapidly dividing cells. It requires regular blood tests and should only be used under specialist supervision.
- Generic Name: Mercaptopurine
- Manufacturer: Neova Biogene Private Limited
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 biopurin 50mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा मर्कैप्टोप्यूरीन 50 मिलीग्राम युक्त एक मौखिक कीमोथेरेपी एजेंट है, जिसका उपयोग मुख्य रूप से तीव्र लिम्फोब्लास्टिक ल्यूकेमिया (ALL) के रखरखाव उपचार में किया जाता है। यह कैंसर कोशिकाओं के विकास को रोकने के लिए डीएनए और आरएनए संश्लेषण को बाधित करती है। कभी-कभी इसका उपयोग सूजन आंत्र रोग (IBD) के लिए भी किया जाता है। इस दवा को केवल विशेषज्ञ की देखरेख में ही लेना चाहिए।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, भूख न लगना, दस्त और मुंह के छाले शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में अस्थि मज्जा का दमन, जिससे संक्रमण और रक्तस्राव का खतरा बढ़ जाता है, और यकृत विषाक्तता शामिल है। यदि आपको बुखार, गले में खराश, असामान्य रक्तस्राव, या आंखों का पीलापन दिखे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। नियमित रूप से रक्त परीक्षण करवाएं। संक्रमण से बचें और लाइव टीके न लगवाएं। गर्भावस्था के दौरान इस दवा का सेवन न करें। शराब से बचें। दवा को कमरे के तापमान पर सूखी जगह पर रखें।
💊 biopurin 50mg tablet Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)","description":"Used as part of maintenance therapy to maintain remission in patients with ALL.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)","description":"Sometimes used off-label to treat Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis in patients who do not respond to other treatments.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)","description":"Occasionally used in certain regimens for AML, though less common.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Crohn's Disease","description":"May be prescribed off-label to induce and maintain remission in Crohn's disease.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Ulcerative Colitis","description":"May be used off-label for ulcerative colitis that is refractory to other treatments.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Also treats: Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Acute Myeloid Leukemia
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Mercaptopurine |
| Brand Name | Biopurin |
| Manufacturer | Neova Biogene Private Limited |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | ANTI NEOPLASTICS |
| Action Class | Antimetabolites |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep in the original container. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
Mercaptopurine is a purine antimetabolite that acts as a prodrug. It is converted intracellularly into active metabolites that inhibit purine synthesis and incorporate into DNA and RNA, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, particularly in rapidly dividing cells such as cancer cells.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take biopurin 50mg tablet
Strength: Mercaptopurine 50mg immediate-release tablet
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The dose of this medicine is highly individualized and depends on the specific condition being treated, the patient's response, and genetic factors such as TPMT and NUDT15 status. For acute lymphoblastic leukemia, the typical maintenance dose is 1.5 to 2.5 mg/kg per day orally, often rounded to the nearest 25 mg. For inflammatory bowel disease, doses may range from 0.5 to 1.5 mg/kg per day. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and genetic testing results. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatric oncologist for dosing in children. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of mercaptopurine. Dose selection should be cautious, and monitoring of blood counts and liver function is essential. |
| Renal Impairment | Dose adjustment may be required in patients with renal impairment. Consult a clinician for specific recommendations. |
| Hepatic Impairment | Dose reduction is recommended in patients with hepatic impairment. Monitor liver function closely. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose is not fixed and depends on the indication and patient factors. It should not exceed the dose prescribed by the clinician. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of biopurin 50mg tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Allopurinol | Major | |
| Warfarin | Major | |
| Live vaccines | Major | |
| Aminosalicylates | Moderate | |
| Methotrexate | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Allopurinol
- Warfarin
- Live vaccines
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Aminosalicylates (e.g., mesalamine, sulfasalazine)
- Methotrexate
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol may increase the risk of liver toxicity. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Hypersensitivity to mercaptopurine or any component of the formulation","Severe bone marrow suppression","Severe liver disease","Pregnancy (unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus)"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Bone marrow suppression: Monitor blood counts regularly. Dose reduction may be required.","Hepatotoxicity: Monitor liver function. Discontinue if severe.","Immunosuppression: Increased risk of infections. Avoid live vaccines.","TPMT deficiency: Patients with low TPMT activity are at increased risk of severe toxicity. Dose reduction is required.","NUDT15 deficiency: Similar to TPMT, patients with NUDT15 variants are at increased risk of toxicity.","Carcinogenicity: May increase the risk of secondary malignancies.","Pregnancy: May cause fetal harm. Use effective contraception."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Mercaptopurine is excreted in breast milk. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made to discontinue nursing or the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
💊 Overdose Management
There is no specific antidote for mercaptopurine overdose. Management should be symptomatic and supportive. Monitor blood counts and liver function closely. In case of overdose, contact a poison control center or emergency department immediately.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, 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 schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine must be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not adjust the dose without medical advice. Regular blood tests are required to monitor your blood counts and liver function. Avoid contact with people who have infections, as your immune system may be weakened. Do not receive live vaccines while taking this medicine. Use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after, as this medicine can harm an unborn baby. Avoid alcohol, as it may increase the risk of liver problems. Inform your doctor if you experience fever, sore throat, unusual bleeding, or yellowing of the eyes. Store this medicine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, particularly bone marrow suppression and hepatotoxicity. Close monitoring of blood counts and liver function is recommended. Dose adjustment may be necessary.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
This medicine can cause fetal harm. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 3 months after stopping. Men should also use contraception. If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor to discuss alternative treatments.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
This medicine may impair wound healing and increase the risk of infections after surgery. Inform your surgeon that you are taking this medicine. Your doctor may recommend temporarily stopping the medicine before surgery.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine. You may be at increased risk of bleeding and infections. Your dentist may recommend antibiotics before dental procedures. Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent mouth sores.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Mild to moderate exercise is generally safe, but avoid strenuous activities if you have fatigue, anemia, or low platelet counts. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise program.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause fatigue, dizziness, or increased susceptibility to infections, which can affect your ability to work or drive. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you feel unwell. Discuss with your employer about any necessary accommodations.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping abruptly can lead to relapse of the underlying condition. Your doctor will determine when it is safe to discontinue based on your response and monitoring.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine may increase the risk of secondary cancers, bone marrow suppression, and liver toxicity. Regular monitoring of blood counts and liver function is essential. Patients should be monitored for signs of infection and bleeding. The risk-benefit ratio should be reassessed periodically.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Another purine antimetabolite that may be used as an alternative for IBD or as part of chemotherapy regimens.
Evidence: Well-establishedUsed in combination with mercaptopurine for ALL maintenance.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
Live vaccines should be avoided during treatment with this medicine due to the risk of serious infections. Inactivated vaccines may be given, but the immune response may be reduced. Consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid temperature extremes. Check the laws of your destination country regarding controlled substances. If traveling across time zones, consult your doctor about adjusting the dosing schedule. Store at room temperature and protect from moisture.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: The therapeutic effects may take several weeks to become apparent. Your doctor will monitor your response with regular blood tests.
A: Yes, taking it with food can help reduce nausea and stomach upset.
A: Avoid alcohol, live vaccines, and contact with people who have infections. Also avoid grapefruit and allopurinol unless directed by your doctor.
A: This medicine can harm an unborn baby. Use effective contraception during treatment and consult your doctor if you are planning pregnancy.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for biopurin 50mg tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
captomer 50mg tabletNeon Laboratories Ltd ₹50.00 30.6% CHEAPER
-
6-MP 50mg TabletZydus Cadila ₹61.30 14.9% CHEAPER
-
merkglob 50mg tabletGlobela Pharma Pvt Ltd ₹64.00 11.1% CHEAPER
-
puri nethol 50mg tabletGlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare ₹80.47 11.8% COSTLIER
-
mercapto 50mg tabletChandra Bhagat Pharma Pvt Ltd ₹95.00 31.9% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: Mercaptopurine is a painkiller.
Fact: Mercaptopurine is a chemotherapy medicine used for leukemia and certain immune conditions, not a painkiller. - Myth: You can stop taking mercaptopurine once you feel better.
Fact: You must complete the full course as prescribed; stopping early can lead to relapse. - Myth: Mercaptopurine has no serious side effects.
Fact: Mercaptopurine can cause serious bone marrow suppression and liver toxicity, requiring regular monitoring.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Mercaptopurine 50mg tablet (generic)
Brand Alternatives
- Biopurin 50mg tablet