Just starting Mercaptopur...
Wed, December 31, 2008 1:00 AM
Hi! I was recently hospitalized for 6 days after having a flare up for almost 5 weeks (severe dehydration, malnutrition-couldn't eat ANYTHING!) and my GI dr now has me on Mercaptopur, Sulfasalazin and tapering off of Prednisone. I have a history of kidney stones and Pancreatitis so I am worried about the new meds! Any advice? Thank you :)
Is being tired one of the side effects?
jenpen80Joined Dec 31, 2008
Thu, January 22, 2009 5:23 PM
Just starting Mercaptopur...I have heard that someone was on it for 18 years! I started taking it about a year and a half ago and I am doing well. I also take Allipurinol used to treat gout, it makes the 6-mp work better. I am seeing a fabulous doctor in NYC. I am truly sure that this drug will not only help manage my colitis but can be safely taken for a long period of time.
betternowJoined Jan 22, 2009
Sat, January 03, 2009 9:23 PM
Reply posted for jenpen80.
I have been on 6-MP for 8 years now and have not noticed any side effects. you should follow your GI doctor's instructions and get blood tests regularly to avoid any surprises. I have a history with kidney stones also and this is due to dehydration. Drinking water is a MUST!! Otherwise you are looking forward to some serious pain and added frustration with the stones. The biggest one I have had was 21mm and had to have lithotripsy to pass it. You don't want that! trust me! But above all you have to stay in constant communication with your GI.
I hope this helps and take care,
Chris
Joined Jan 3, 2009
Thu, January 01, 2009 1:00 AM
Reply posted for Chris.
I am glad to hear about this because I have an idea of what to look out for. My son has been on 6-mp for 3 months. We had his check-up last week and his levels were normal. Does anyone know what is the average length of time that a person can be on 6-mp?
Joined Dec 8, 2008
Wed, December 31, 2008 1:00 AM
Reply posted for jenpen80.
Hi! I was on 6MP for a few months and each month my bloodwork came back normal. Then, when my Dr. ordered the special blood test, it showed that it wasn't even affecting my body! The dose wasn't enough. So, in August we upped the dose and in Sept, I couldn't move my muscles and I felt like I had the flu. He did another blood test and my muscle enzymes were elevated which explains the pain. Also, my liver enzymes were abnormal and elevated. So, I stopped taking it immediately. Now, 3 months later, my liver still is showing abnormal results and if the test I get on Monday shows its still not normal, I will need to get a biopsy. That 6MP was rough on me! Good luck and make sure you are in constant communiation with your GI Dr!
Joined Nov 23, 2008
Wed, December 31, 2008 1:00 AM
Reply posted for Chris.
Thank you so much! :)
jenpen80Joined Dec 31, 2008
Wed, December 31, 2008 1:00 AM
Reply posted for jenpen80.
It takes a while for Mercaptopurine to build up in your system. I think 6 weeks or so, so be patient.
I had horrible side effects from tapering off prednisone. I was OK while on it, but coming off, I got the worst acne breakout of my life. I'm not sure why, but your body doesn't like coming off prednisone.
I've been on Mercaptopurine for seven or eight months now, and don't see any side effects. My guess is the tapering off prednisone is the culprit.
Joined Dec 28, 2008
Related Topics
Barrier And Pouch misorde...
Mich0501Joined Jan 15, 2025
I have sensura mio deep convex pouch sets that I c....
read more