Thioguanine
BCR-ABL Positive Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia, Chronic Neutrophilic Leukemia ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Antimetabolite
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Thioguanine
Summary
Thioguanine is used to treat a type of cancer called acute myeloid leukemia (AML), which starts in the white blood cells.
Thioguanine works by interfering with the growth and replication of cancer cells. It gets incorporated into their DNA and RNA, disrupting their nucleic acid biosynthesis, which slows or stops the growth of these cells.
Thioguanine is typically taken orally once a day. The usual initial dose for both adults and children is about 2 mg per kg of body weight per day.
Common side effects of Thioguanine include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and headache. Serious side effects can include unusual tiredness, unusual bleeding, yellowing of the skin or eyes, flu-like symptoms, and signs of liver toxicity.
Thioguanine should not be used for long-term continuous use due to the risk of liver toxicity. It should not be used in patients who have shown resistance to this drug. Those with a genetic deficiency in TPMT or NUDT15 enzymes may need dosage adjustments due to increased risk of myelosuppression.
Indications and Purpose
How does Thioguanine work?
Thioguanine is a purine analog that interferes with nucleic acid biosynthesis. It is incorporated into the DNA and RNA of cancer cells, disrupting their ability to multiply. This action helps slow or stop the growth of cancer cells in the body.
Is Thioguanine effective?
Thioguanine is used to treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and is effective in inducing remission when used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs. Clinical studies have shown that it interferes with nucleic acid biosynthesis, slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.
What is Thioguanine?
Thioguanine is used to treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a type of cancer that starts in white blood cells. It belongs to a class of medications called purine analogs, which work by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells. Thioguanine interferes with nucleic acid biosynthesis, disrupting the cancer cells' ability to multiply.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Thioguanine?
The duration of use for Thioguanine depends on the type of cancer being treated, the response to the medication, and the treatment plan set by your doctor. It is typically used as part of a combination chemotherapy regimen and not recommended for long-term continuous use due to the risk of liver toxicity.
How do I take Thioguanine?
Take Thioguanine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day at the same time. There are no specific food restrictions, so you can continue your normal diet unless advised otherwise by your doctor. Drink plenty of fluids during treatment.
How should I store Thioguanine?
Store Thioguanine in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom. Dispose of unneeded medication through a take-back program, not by flushing it down the toilet.
What is the usual dose of Thioguanine?
The usual initial dosage for both adults and children is approximately 2 mg/kg of body weight per day. If there is no clinical improvement after 4 weeks and no significant drop in blood cell counts, the dosage may be cautiously increased to 3 mg/kg/day. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Thioguanine with other prescription drugs?
Thioguanine may interact with drugs that inhibit the TPMT enzyme, such as olsalazine, mesalazine, or sulphasalazine, potentially increasing the risk of bone marrow suppression. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking to avoid harmful interactions.
Can Thioguanine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
It is not known whether Thioguanine is excreted in human milk. Due to the potential for tumorigenicity, a decision should be made to either discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, considering the importance of the medication to the mother.
Can Thioguanine be taken safely while pregnant?
Thioguanine may cause fetal harm and is considered a potential mutagen and teratogen. It should not be used during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. Women of childbearing potential should avoid becoming pregnant while taking this medication. If pregnancy occurs, consult your doctor immediately.
Is Thioguanine safe for the elderly?
For elderly patients, dose selection should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range. This is due to the greater frequency of decreased liver, kidney, or heart function, and the presence of other diseases or medications. Close monitoring is essential to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Who should avoid taking Thioguanine?
Thioguanine should not be used in patients with prior resistance to the drug. It is not recommended for long-term use due to liver toxicity risks. Patients with TPMT or NUDT15 deficiency may require dosage adjustments. Close monitoring for bone marrow suppression and liver toxicity is essential.
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