6-MP

6-MP is a brand name for Mercaptopurine 50mg tablets, which is a chemotherapy medication used to treat various types of cancer. Here are some key points about the product:

Composition:

Each 50mg tablet of 6-MP contains Mercaptopurine, a purine analog that inhibits the synthesis of DNA, RNA, and protein, thereby preventing the growth and proliferation of cancer cells.

Indications:

6-MP is indicated for the treatment of:

1. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
2. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
3. Lymphoma
4. Solid tumors

Mechanism of Action:

Mercaptopurine works by:

1. Inhibiting the synthesis of DNA, RNA, and protein in cancer cells.
2. Causing DNA damage and cell death.

Dosage and Administration:

The recommended dosage of 6-MP is 50mg taken orally, once or twice a day, depending on the specific condition being treated. The dosage may be adjusted based on individual patient response and toxicity.

Side Effects:

Common side effects of 6-MP include:

1. Nausea and vomiting
2. Diarrhea
3. Abdominal pain
4. Fatigue
5. Hair loss
6. Anemia
7. Thrombocytopenia
8. Neutropenia

Serious side effects can include:

1. Hepatotoxicity (e.g., liver failure, liver damage)
2. Cardiac toxicity (e.g., cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac failure)
3. Gastrointestinal bleeding
4. Respiratory events (e.g., respiratory failure, pneumonitis)
5. Skin reactions (e.g., rash, Stevens-Johnson syndrome)

Contraindications:

6-MP is contraindicated in patients with:

1. Known hypersensitivity to mercaptopurine
2. Severe bone marrow depression
3. Active liver disease
4. Severe kidney disease

Precautions:

1. Patients with a history of cardiac disease or cardiac arrhythmias should be closely monitored while receiving 6-MP.
2. Patients with a history of liver disease or kidney dysfunction should receive dose reduction or close monitoring while receiving 6-MP.
3. Patients with a history of blood disorders should be closely monitored for signs of blood dyscrasias.
4. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not receive 6-MP.
5. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception while receiving 6-MP.

Patient Counseling:

• Patients should be counseled on the importance of taking their medication as directed and not missing doses.
• Patients should be instructed to report any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or sore throat.
• Patients should be advised to report any changes in their appetite, nausea, or vomiting.
• Patients should be informed that they may experience hair loss, skin changes, or changes in their nails during treatment.

Storage and Handling:

• Store tablets at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F).
• Do not expose to direct sunlight or moisture.
• Use within 24 months of opening.

Please note that the dosage and administration information is based on the recommended dosage and may vary depending on individual patient needs and circumstances.