GERIATRIC USE SECTION.

8.5 Geriatric Use Clinical studies of mercaptopurine did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or another drug therapy.

HEPATIC IMPAIRMENT SUBSECTION.

8.7 Hepatic Impairment Use the lowest recommended starting dosage for Mercaptopurine Tablets in patients with hepatic impairment. Adjust the dose to maintain absolute neutrophil count (ANC) at desirable level and for adverse reactions [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)].

HOW SUPPLIED SECTION.

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Mercaptopurine Tablets, USP50 mg supplied as pale yellow, biconvex tablets, with product identification 54 420 on one side and score on the other side. NDC 0054-4581-11: Bottle of 25 TabletsNDC 0054-4581-27: Bottle of 250 Tablets Store at 20C to 25C (68F to 77F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.] Store in dry place. Dispense in tight, child-resistant container as defined in the USP/NF.Mercaptopurine Tablets is cytotoxic drug. Follow special handling and disposal procedures.1.

INDICATIONS & USAGE SECTION.

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Mercaptopurine Tablets is nucleoside metabolic inhibitor indicated for treatment of adult and pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) as part of combination chemotherapy maintenance regimen. (1.1). 1.1 Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Mercaptopurine Tablets are indicated for treatment of adult and pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) as part of combination chemotherapy maintenance regimen.

ADVERSE REACTIONS SECTION.

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling:oMyelosuppression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 )]oHepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]oImmunosuppression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] oTreatment related malignancies [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]oMacrophage activation syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]. oMyelosuppression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 )]. oHepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. oImmunosuppression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] oTreatment related malignancies [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]. oMacrophage activation syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]. The most common adverse reaction (>20%) is myelosuppression, including anemia, leukopenia and thrombocytopenia. Adverse reactions occurring in 5% to 20% of patients include anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, malaise and rash. (6.1)To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. at 1-800-962-8364 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Based on multicenter cooperative group ALL trials, the most common adverse reaction occurring in 20% of patients was myelosuppression, including anemia, neutropenia, lymphopenia and thrombocytopenia. Adverse reactions occurring in 5% to 20% of patients included anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, malaise and rash. Adverse reactions occurring in 5 of patients included urticaria, hyperuricemia, oral lesions, increased transaminases, hyperbilirubinemia, hyperpigmentation, infections, and pancreatitis. Oral lesions resemble thrush rather than antifolic ulcerations. Delayed or late adverse reactions include hepatic fibrosis, hyperbilirubinemia, alopecia, pulmonary fibrosis, oligospermia and secondary malignancies [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.2)]. Drug fever has been reported with mercaptopurine.Additional adverse reactions that have been reported in patients who have received mercaptopurine include photosensitivity, hypoglycemia, and portal hypertension.

CARCINOGENESIS & MUTAGENESIS & IMPAIRMENT OF FERTILITY SECTION.

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Mercaptopurine is carcinogenic in animals.Mercaptopurine causes chromosomal aberrations in cells derived from animals and humans and induces dominant-lethal mutations in the germ cells of male mice. Mercaptopurine can impair fertility. In mice, surviving female offspring of mothers who received chronic low doses of mercaptopurine during pregnancy were found sterile, or if they became pregnant, had smaller litters and more dead fetuses as compared to control animals.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY SECTION.

12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY 12.1 Mechanism of Action Mercaptopurine is purine analog that undergoes intracellular transport and activation to form metabolites including thioguanine nucleotides (TGNs). Incorporation of TGNs into DNA or RNA results in cell-cycle arrest and cell death. TGNs and other mercaptopurine metabolites are also inhibitors of de novo purine synthesis and purine nucleotide interconversions. Mercaptopurine was cytotoxic to proliferating cancer cells in vitro and had antitumor activity in mouse tumor models. It is not known which of the biochemical effects of mercaptopurine and its metabolites are directly or predominantly responsible for cell death.. 12.2 Pharmacodynamics Exposure-Response Relationships Mercaptopurine exposure-response relationships and the time course of pharmacodynamics response are unknown.. 12.3 Pharmacokinetics Following single oral dose of mercaptopurine 50 mg under fasted conditions to adult healthy subjects, the mean AUC0-INF was 129 h.ng/mL and Cmax was 69 ng/mL.Absorption Food EffectFood has been shown to decrease the exposure of mercaptopurine. Distribution The volume of distribution usually exceeded that of the total body water. There is negligible entry of mercaptopurine into cerebrospinal fluid. Plasma protein binding averages 19% over the concentration range 10 to 50 mcg/mL (a concentration only achieved by intravenous administration of mercaptopurine at doses exceeding to 10 mg/kg). Elimination The elimination half-life is less than hours following single oral dose. MetabolismMercaptopurine is inactivated via two major pathways. One is thiol methylation, which is catalyzed by the polymorphic enzyme thiopurine S-methyltransferase (TPMT), to form the inactive metabolite methyl-mercaptopurine. The second inactivation pathway is oxidation, which is catalyzed by xanthine oxidase. The product of oxidation is the inactive metabolite 6-thiouric acid. Excretion Following the oral administration of radiolabeled mercaptopurine, 46% of the dose was recovered in the urine (as parent drug and metabolites) in the first 24 hours. 12.5 Pharmacogenomics Several published studies indicate that patients with reduced TPMT or NUDT15 activity receiving usual doses of mercaptopurine, accumulate excessive cellular concentrations of active 6-TGNs, and are at higher risk for severe myelosuppression. In study of 1028 children with ALL, the approximate tolerated mercaptopurine dosage for patients with TPMT and/or NUDT15 deficiency on mercaptopurine maintenance therapy (as percentage of the planned dosage) was as follows: heterozygous for either TPMT or NUDT15, 50 to 90%; heterozygous for both TPMT and NUDT15, 30 to 50%; homozygous for either TPMT or NUDT15, to 10%. Approximately 0.3% (1:300) of patients of European or African ancestry have two loss-of-function alleles of the TPMT gene and have little or no TPMT activity (homozygous deficient or poor metabolizers), and approximately 10% of patients have one loss-of-function TPMT allele leading to intermediate TPMT activity (heterozygous deficient or intermediate metabolizers). The TPMT2, TPMT3A, and TPMT3C alleles account for about 95% of individuals with reduced levels of TPMT activity. NUDT15 deficiency is detected in <1% of patients of European or African ancestry. Among patients of East Asian ancestry (i.e., Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese), 2% have two loss-of-function alleles of the NUDT15 gene, and approximately 21% have one loss-of-function allele. The p.R139C variant of NUDT15 (present on the and alleles) is the most commonly observed, but other less common loss-of-function NUDT15 alleles have been observed. Consider all clinical information when interpreting results from phenotypic testing used to determine the level of thiopurine nucleotides or TPMT activity in erythrocytes, since some coadministered drugs can influence measurement of TPMT activity in blood and blood from recent transfusions will misrepresent patients actual TPMT activity [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

CONTRAINDICATIONS SECTION.

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS None. None.

DESCRIPTION SECTION.

11 DESCRIPTION Mercaptopurine is nucleoside metabolic inhibitor, the chemical name is 6H-purine-6-thione, 1,7-dihydro-, monohydrate. The molecular formula is C5H4N4S H2O and the molecular weight is 170.20. Its structural formula is:Mercaptopurine is yellow, crystalline powder. Mercaptopurine is practically insoluble in water and in ether. It has pKa of 7.8, an average tapped density of 1.0 g/mL and average bulk density of 0.85 g/mL. It dissolves in solutions of alkali hydroxides. Mercaptopurine Tablets, USP are available for oral use. Each scored tablet contains 50 mg mercaptopurine, USP and the following inactive ingredients: corn starch, hypromellose, lactose (anhydrous), lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, potato starch, sodium starch glycolate and stearic acid.Each tablet meets the requirements of Test for Dissolution in the USP monograph for Mercaptopurine Tablets, USP.. image-01.jpg.

DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION SECTION.

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION oThe recommended starting dose of Mercaptopurine Tablets is 1.5 mg/kg to 2.5 mg/kg orally once daily as part of combination chemotherapy maintenance regimen. Adjust dose to maintain desirable absolute neutrophil count and for excessive myelosuppression. (2.1) oRenal Impairment: Use the lowest recommended starting dose or increase the dosing interval. (2.3, 8.6)oHepatic Impairment: Use the lowest recommended starting dose. (2.3, 8.7). oThe recommended starting dose of Mercaptopurine Tablets is 1.5 mg/kg to 2.5 mg/kg orally once daily as part of combination chemotherapy maintenance regimen. Adjust dose to maintain desirable absolute neutrophil count and for excessive myelosuppression. (2.1) oRenal Impairment: Use the lowest recommended starting dose or increase the dosing interval. (2.3, 8.6). oHepatic Impairment: Use the lowest recommended starting dose. (2.3, 8.7). 2.1 Recommended Dosage The recommended starting dosage of Mercaptopurine Tablets is 1.5 mg/kg to 2.5 mg/kg orally once daily as part of combination chemotherapy maintenance regimen. recommended dosage for patients less than 17 kg is not achievable, because the only available strength is 50 mg. Take Mercaptopurine Tablets either consistently with or without food. After initiating Mercaptopurine Tablets, monitor complete blood count (CBC) and adjust the dose to maintain absolute neutrophil count (ANC) at desirable level and for excessive myelosuppression. Evaluate the bone marrow in patients with prolonged myelosuppression or repeated episodes of myelosuppression to assess leukemia status and marrow cellularity. Evaluate thiopurine S-methyltransferase (TPMT) and nucleotide diphosphatase (NUDT15) status in patients with severe myelosuppression or repeated episodes or myelosuppression [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)]. Do not administer to patients who are unable to swallow tablets. If patient misses dose, instruct the patient to continue with the next scheduled dose. Mercaptopurine Tablets is cytotoxic drug. Follow special handling and disposal procedures. 2.2 Dosage Modifications in Patients with TPMT and NUDT15 Deficiency Consider testing for TPMT and NUDT15 deficiency in patients who experience severe myelosuppression or repeated episodes of myelosuppression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1), Clinical Pharmacology (12.5)]. Homozygous Deficiency in either TPMT or NUDT15 Patients with homozygous deficiency of either enzyme typically require 10% or less of the recommended dosage. Reduce the recommended starting dosage of Mercaptopurine Tablets in patients who are known to have homozygous TPMT or NUDT15 deficiency. Heterozygous Deficiency in TPMT and/or NUDT15 Reduce the Mercaptopurine Tablets dose based on tolerability. Most patients with heterozygous TPMT or NUDT15 deficiency tolerate the recommended dosage, but some require dose reduction based on adverse reactions. Patients who are heterozygous for both TPMT and NUDT15 may require more substantial dose reductions.. 2.3 Dosage Modifications in Renal and Hepatic Impairment Renal ImpairmentUse the lowest recommended starting dosage for Mercaptopurine Tablets in patients with renal impairment (CLcr less than 50 mL/min). Adjust the dosage to maintain absolute neutrophil count (ANC) at desirable level and for adverse reactions [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)]. Hepatic Impairment Use the lowest recommended starting dosage for Mercaptopurine Tablets in patients with hepatic impairment. Adjust the dosage to maintain absolute neutrophil count (ANC) at desirable level and for adverse reactions [see Uses in Specific Populations (8.7)]. 2.4 Dosage Modification with Concomitant Use of Allopurinol Reduce the dose of Mercaptopurine Tablets to one-third to one-quarter of the current dosage when coadministered with allopurinol [see Drug Interactions (7.1)].

DOSAGE FORMS & STRENGTHS SECTION.

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Tablets: 50 mg mercaptopurine are pale yellow, biconvex tablets, with product identification 54 420 on one side and score on the other side. Tablets: 50 mg (3).

DRUG INTERACTIONS SECTION.

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS oAllopurinol: Reduce the dose of Mercaptopurine Tablets when co-administered with allopurinol. (2.4, 7.1)oWarfarin: Mercaptopurine Tablets may decrease the anticoagulant effect. (7.2). oAllopurinol: Reduce the dose of Mercaptopurine Tablets when co-administered with allopurinol. (2.4, 7.1). oWarfarin: Mercaptopurine Tablets may decrease the anticoagulant effect. (7.2). 7.1 Allopurinol Allopurinol can inhibit the first-pass oxidative metabolism of mercaptopurine by xanthine oxidase, which can lead to an increased risk of mercaptopurine adverse reactions (i.e., myelosuppression, nausea, and vomiting) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1), Adverse Reactions (6.1 )]. Reduce the dose of Mercaptopurine Tablets when coadministered with allopurinol [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)]. 7.2 Warfarin The concomitant administration of Mercaptopurine Tablets and warfarin may decrease the anticoagulant effectiveness of warfarin. Monitor the international normalized ratio (INR) in patients receiving warfarin and adjust the warfarin dosage as appropriate.. 7.3 Myelosuppressive Products Mercaptopurine Tablets can cause myelosuppression. Myelosuppression may be increased when Mercaptopurine Tablets are coadministered with other products that cause myelosuppression. Enhanced myelosuppression has been noted in some patients also receiving trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Monitor the CBC and adjust the dose of Mercaptopurine Tablets for excessive myelosuppression [see Dosage and Administration (2.1), Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. 7.4 Aminosalicylates Aminosalicylates (e.g., mesalamine, olsalazine or sulfasalazine) may inhibit the TPMT enzyme, which may increase the risk of myelosuppression when coadministered with Mercaptopurine Tablets. When aminosalicylates and Mercaptopurine Tablets are coadministered, use the lowest possible doses for each drug and monitor more frequently for myelosuppression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. 7.5 Hepatotoxic Products Mercaptopurine Tablets can cause hepatotoxicity. Hepatotoxicity may be increased when Mercaptopurine Tablets are coadministered with other products that cause hepatotoxicity. Monitor liver tests more frequently in patients who are receiving Mercaptopurine Tablets with other hepatotoxic products [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

FEMALES & MALES OF REPRODUCTIVE POTENTIAL SECTION.

8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential Mercaptopurine Tablets can cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant women [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. Pregnancy Testing Verify the pregnancy status in females of reproductive potential prior to initiating Mercaptopurine Tablets [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. Contraception Females Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Mercaptopurine Tablets and for months after the last dose. Males Based on genotoxicity findings, advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Mercaptopurine Tablets and for months after the last dose [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)]. Infertility Females and Males Based on findings from animal studies, Mercaptopurine Tablets can impair female and male fertility [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)]. The long-term effects of mercaptopurine on female and male fertility, including the reversibility have not been studied.

INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS SECTION.

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION Major Adverse Reactions Advise patients and caregivers that Mercaptopurine Tablets can cause myelosuppression, hepatotoxicity, and gastrointestinal toxicity. Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider if they experience fever, sore throat, jaundice, nausea, vomiting, signs of local infection, bleeding from any site, or symptoms suggestive of anemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1 5.2 5.3)]. Embryo-Fetal ToxicityoAdvise pregnant women of the potential risk to fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to inform their healthcare provider of known or suspected pregnancy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6), Use in SpecificPopulations (8.1)].oAdvise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Mercaptopurine Tablets and for months after the last dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].oAdvise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Mercaptopurine Tablets and for months after the last dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3), Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1 )].LactationAdvise women not to breastfeed during treatment with Mercaptopurine Tablets and for week after the last dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2)]. InfertilityAdvise males and females of reproductive potential that Mercaptopurine Tablets can impair fertility [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)]. Other Adverse ReactionsInstruct patients to minimize sun exposure due to risk of photosensitivity [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. Distributed by:Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922C50000734/01Revised June 2021. oAdvise pregnant women of the potential risk to fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to inform their healthcare provider of known or suspected pregnancy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6), Use in SpecificPopulations (8.1)].. oAdvise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Mercaptopurine Tablets and for months after the last dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].. oAdvise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Mercaptopurine Tablets and for months after the last dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3), Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1 )].

LACTATION SECTION.

8.2 Lactation Risk SummaryThere are no data on the presence of mercaptopurine or its metabolites in human milk, the effects on the breastfed child, or the effects on milk production. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in the breastfed child, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with Mercaptopurine Tablets and for week after the last dose.

MECHANISM OF ACTION SECTION.

12.1 Mechanism of Action Mercaptopurine is purine analog that undergoes intracellular transport and activation to form metabolites including thioguanine nucleotides (TGNs). Incorporation of TGNs into DNA or RNA results in cell-cycle arrest and cell death. TGNs and other mercaptopurine metabolites are also inhibitors of de novo purine synthesis and purine nucleotide interconversions. Mercaptopurine was cytotoxic to proliferating cancer cells in vitro and had antitumor activity in mouse tumor models. It is not known which of the biochemical effects of mercaptopurine and its metabolites are directly or predominantly responsible for cell death.

NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY SECTION.

13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY 13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Mercaptopurine is carcinogenic in animals.Mercaptopurine causes chromosomal aberrations in cells derived from animals and humans and induces dominant-lethal mutations in the germ cells of male mice. Mercaptopurine can impair fertility. In mice, surviving female offspring of mothers who received chronic low doses of mercaptopurine during pregnancy were found sterile, or if they became pregnant, had smaller litters and more dead fetuses as compared to control animals.

OVERDOSAGE SECTION.

10 OVERDOSAGE Signs and symptoms of mercaptopurine overdosage may be immediate (anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea); or delayed (myelosuppression, liver dysfunction, and gastroenteritis). Dialysis cannot be expected to clear mercaptopurine. Hemodialysis is thought to be of marginal use due to the rapid intracellular incorporation of mercaptopurine into active metabolites with long persistence. Withhold Mercaptopurine Tablets immediately for severe or life-threatening adverse reactions occur during treatment. If patient is seen immediately following an accidental overdosage, it may be useful to induce emesis.

PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL.

PACKAGE/LABEL PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL Mercaptopurine Tablets, USPNDC 0054-4581-11: Bottle of 25 tablets Rx only. bl-50mg-25s-0054-4581-11.

PEDIATRIC USE SECTION.

8.4 Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness of Mercaptopurine Tablets have been established in pediatric patients. Use of Mercaptopurine Tablets in pediatrics is supported by evidence from the published literature and clinical experience. Symptomatic hypoglycemia has been reported in pediatric patients with ALL receiving mercaptopurine. Reported cases were in pediatrics less than years of age or with low body mass index.

PHARMACODYNAMICS SECTION.

12.2 Pharmacodynamics Exposure-Response Relationships Mercaptopurine exposure-response relationships and the time course of pharmacodynamics response are unknown.

PHARMACOGENOMICS SECTION.

12.5 Pharmacogenomics Several published studies indicate that patients with reduced TPMT or NUDT15 activity receiving usual doses of mercaptopurine, accumulate excessive cellular concentrations of active 6-TGNs, and are at higher risk for severe myelosuppression. In study of 1028 children with ALL, the approximate tolerated mercaptopurine dosage for patients with TPMT and/or NUDT15 deficiency on mercaptopurine maintenance therapy (as percentage of the planned dosage) was as follows: heterozygous for either TPMT or NUDT15, 50 to 90%; heterozygous for both TPMT and NUDT15, 30 to 50%; homozygous for either TPMT or NUDT15, to 10%. Approximately 0.3% (1:300) of patients of European or African ancestry have two loss-of-function alleles of the TPMT gene and have little or no TPMT activity (homozygous deficient or poor metabolizers), and approximately 10% of patients have one loss-of-function TPMT allele leading to intermediate TPMT activity (heterozygous deficient or intermediate metabolizers). The TPMT2, TPMT3A, and TPMT3C alleles account for about 95% of individuals with reduced levels of TPMT activity. NUDT15 deficiency is detected in <1% of patients of European or African ancestry. Among patients of East Asian ancestry (i.e., Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese), 2% have two loss-of-function alleles of the NUDT15 gene, and approximately 21% have one loss-of-function allele. The p.R139C variant of NUDT15 (present on the and alleles) is the most commonly observed, but other less common loss-of-function NUDT15 alleles have been observed. Consider all clinical information when interpreting results from phenotypic testing used to determine the level of thiopurine nucleotides or TPMT activity in erythrocytes, since some coadministered drugs can influence measurement of TPMT activity in blood and blood from recent transfusions will misrepresent patients actual TPMT activity [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

PHARMACOKINETICS SECTION.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics Following single oral dose of mercaptopurine 50 mg under fasted conditions to adult healthy subjects, the mean AUC0-INF was 129 h.ng/mL and Cmax was 69 ng/mL.Absorption Food EffectFood has been shown to decrease the exposure of mercaptopurine. Distribution The volume of distribution usually exceeded that of the total body water. There is negligible entry of mercaptopurine into cerebrospinal fluid. Plasma protein binding averages 19% over the concentration range 10 to 50 mcg/mL (a concentration only achieved by intravenous administration of mercaptopurine at doses exceeding to 10 mg/kg). Elimination The elimination half-life is less than hours following single oral dose. MetabolismMercaptopurine is inactivated via two major pathways. One is thiol methylation, which is catalyzed by the polymorphic enzyme thiopurine S-methyltransferase (TPMT), to form the inactive metabolite methyl-mercaptopurine. The second inactivation pathway is oxidation, which is catalyzed by xanthine oxidase. The product of oxidation is the inactive metabolite 6-thiouric acid. Excretion Following the oral administration of radiolabeled mercaptopurine, 46% of the dose was recovered in the urine (as parent drug and metabolites) in the first 24 hours.

PREGNANCY SECTION.

8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Mercaptopurine Tablets can cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant woman [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1)]. Pregnant women who receive mercaptopurine have an increased incidence of miscarriage and stillbirth (see Data). Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to fetus. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population(s) is unknown. All pregnancies have background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Data Human Data Women receiving mercaptopurine in the first trimester of pregnancy have an increased incidence of miscarriage; the risk of malformation in offspring surviving first trimester exposure is not known. In series of 28 women receiving mercaptopurine after the first trimester of pregnancy, mothers died prior to delivery, delivered stillborn child, and aborted; there were no cases of macroscopically abnormal fetuses. Animal Data Mercaptopurine was embryo-lethal and teratogenic in several animal species (rat, mouse, rabbit, and hamster) at doses less than the recommended human dose.

REFERENCES SECTION.

15 REFERENCES 1. OSHA Hazardous Drugs. OSHA. http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/hazardousdrugs/index.html.

RENAL IMPAIRMENT SUBSECTION.

8.6 Renal Impairment Use the lowest recommended starting dosage for Mercaptopurine Tablets or increase the dosing interval to every 36 to 48 hours in patients with renal impairment (CLcr less than 50 mL/min). Adjust the dose to maintain absolute neutrophil count (ANC) at desirable level and for adverse reactions [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) ].

SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION.

1.1 Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Mercaptopurine Tablets are indicated for treatment of adult and pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) as part of combination chemotherapy maintenance regimen.

USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS SECTION.

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS oLactation: Advise not to breastfeed. (8.2) oInfertility: Can impair fertility. (8.3). oLactation: Advise not to breastfeed. (8.2) oInfertility: Can impair fertility. (8.3). 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Mercaptopurine Tablets can cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant woman [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1)]. Pregnant women who receive mercaptopurine have an increased incidence of miscarriage and stillbirth (see Data). Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to fetus. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population(s) is unknown. All pregnancies have background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Data Human Data Women receiving mercaptopurine in the first trimester of pregnancy have an increased incidence of miscarriage; the risk of malformation in offspring surviving first trimester exposure is not known. In series of 28 women receiving mercaptopurine after the first trimester of pregnancy, mothers died prior to delivery, delivered stillborn child, and aborted; there were no cases of macroscopically abnormal fetuses. Animal Data Mercaptopurine was embryo-lethal and teratogenic in several animal species (rat, mouse, rabbit, and hamster) at doses less than the recommended human dose. 8.2 Lactation Risk SummaryThere are no data on the presence of mercaptopurine or its metabolites in human milk, the effects on the breastfed child, or the effects on milk production. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in the breastfed child, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with Mercaptopurine Tablets and for week after the last dose.. 8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential Mercaptopurine Tablets can cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant women [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. Pregnancy Testing Verify the pregnancy status in females of reproductive potential prior to initiating Mercaptopurine Tablets [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. Contraception Females Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Mercaptopurine Tablets and for months after the last dose. Males Based on genotoxicity findings, advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Mercaptopurine Tablets and for months after the last dose [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)]. Infertility Females and Males Based on findings from animal studies, Mercaptopurine Tablets can impair female and male fertility [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)]. The long-term effects of mercaptopurine on female and male fertility, including the reversibility have not been studied.. 8.4 Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness of Mercaptopurine Tablets have been established in pediatric patients. Use of Mercaptopurine Tablets in pediatrics is supported by evidence from the published literature and clinical experience. Symptomatic hypoglycemia has been reported in pediatric patients with ALL receiving mercaptopurine. Reported cases were in pediatrics less than years of age or with low body mass index. 8.5 Geriatric Use Clinical studies of mercaptopurine did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or another drug therapy.. 8.6 Renal Impairment Use the lowest recommended starting dosage for Mercaptopurine Tablets or increase the dosing interval to every 36 to 48 hours in patients with renal impairment (CLcr less than 50 mL/min). Adjust the dose to maintain absolute neutrophil count (ANC) at desirable level and for adverse reactions [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) ].. 8.7 Hepatic Impairment Use the lowest recommended starting dosage for Mercaptopurine Tablets in patients with hepatic impairment. Adjust the dose to maintain absolute neutrophil count (ANC) at desirable level and for adverse reactions [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)].

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS SECTION.

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS oMyelosuppression: Monitor complete blood count (CBC) and adjust the dose of Mercaptopurine Tablets for excessive myelosuppression. Consider testing in patients with severe myelosuppression or repeated episodes of myelosuppression for thiopurine S-methyltransferase (TPMT) or nucleotide diphosphatase (NUDT15) deficiency. Patients with homozygous or homozygous TPMT or NUDT15 deficiency may require dose reduction. (2.2, 5.1)oHepatotoxicity: Monitor transaminases, alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin. Withhold Mercaptopurine Tablets at onset of hepatotoxicity. (5.2) oImmunosuppression: Response to all vaccines may be diminished and there is risk of infection with live virus vaccines. Consult immunization guidelines for immunocompromised patients. (5.3) oTreatment Related Malignancies: Aggressive and fatal cases of hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma have occurred. (5.4) oMacrophage Activation Syndrome: Monitor for and treat promptly; discontinue Mercaptopurine Tablets. (5.5) oEmbryo-Fetal Toxicity: Can cause fetal harm. Advise patients of reproductive potential of the potential risk to fetus and to use effective contraception. (5.6, 8.1, 8.3). oMyelosuppression: Monitor complete blood count (CBC) and adjust the dose of Mercaptopurine Tablets for excessive myelosuppression. Consider testing in patients with severe myelosuppression or repeated episodes of myelosuppression for thiopurine S-methyltransferase (TPMT) or nucleotide diphosphatase (NUDT15) deficiency. Patients with homozygous or homozygous TPMT or NUDT15 deficiency may require dose reduction. (2.2, 5.1). oHepatotoxicity: Monitor transaminases, alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin. Withhold Mercaptopurine Tablets at onset of hepatotoxicity. (5.2) oImmunosuppression: Response to all vaccines may be diminished and there is risk of infection with live virus vaccines. Consult immunization guidelines for immunocompromised patients. (5.3) oTreatment Related Malignancies: Aggressive and fatal cases of hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma have occurred. (5.4) oMacrophage Activation Syndrome: Monitor for and treat promptly; discontinue Mercaptopurine Tablets. (5.5) oEmbryo-Fetal Toxicity: Can cause fetal harm. Advise patients of reproductive potential of the potential risk to fetus and to use effective contraception. (5.6, 8.1, 8.3). 5.1 Myelosuppression The most consistent, dose-related adverse reaction is myelosuppression, manifested by anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, or any combination of these. Monitor CBC and adjust the dosage of Mercaptopurine Tablets for excessive myelosuppression [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)]. Consider testing for TPMT or NUDT15 deficiency in patients with severe myelosuppression or repeated episodes of myelosuppression. TPMT genotyping or phenotyping (red blood cell TPMT activity) and NUDT15 genotyping can identify patients who have reduced activity of these enzymes. Patients with heterozygous or homozygous TPMT or NUDT15 deficiency may require dose reduction [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), Clinical Pharmacology (12.5)]. Myelosuppression can be exacerbated by coadministration with allopurinol, aminosalicylates or other products that cause myelosuppression [see Drug Interactions (7.1, 7.3, 7.4)]. Reduce the dose of Mercaptopurine Tablets when coadministered with allopurinol [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)]. 5.2 Hepatotoxicity Mercaptopurine is hepatotoxic. There are reports of deaths attributed to hepatic necrosis associated with the administration of mercaptopurine. Hepatic injury can occur with any dosage but seems to occur with greater frequency when the recommended dosage is exceeded. In some patients, jaundice has cleared following withdrawal of mercaptopurine and reappeared with rechallenge. Usually, clinically detectable jaundice appears early in the course of treatment (1 to months); however, jaundice has been reported as early as week and as late as years after the starting mercaptopurine. The hepatotoxicity has been associated in some cases with anorexia, diarrhea, jaundice and ascites. Hepatic encephalopathy has occurred. Monitor serum transaminase levels, alkaline phosphatase, and bilirubin levels at weekly intervals when first beginning therapy and at monthly intervals thereafter. Monitor liver tests more frequently in patients who are receiving Mercaptopurine Tablets with other hepatotoxic products [see Drug Interactions (7.5)] or with known pre-existing liver disease. Withhold Mercaptopurine Tablets at onset of hepatotoxicity.. 5.3 Immunosuppression Mercaptopurine is immunosuppressive and may impair the immune response to infectious agents or vaccines. Due to the immunosuppression associated with maintenance chemotherapy for ALL, response to all vaccines may be diminished and there is risk of infection with live virus vaccines. Consult immunization guidelines for immunocompromised patients.. 5.4 Treatment Related Malignancies Hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma has been reported in patients treated with mercaptopurine for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), an unapproved use. Mercaptopurine is mutagenic in animals and humans, carcinogenic in animals, and may increase the risk of secondary malignancies. Patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy, including mercaptopurine, are at an increased risk of developing lymphoproliferative disorders and other malignancies, notably skin cancers (melanoma and non-melanoma), sarcomas (Kaposis and non-Kaposis) and uterine cervical cancer in situ. The increased risk appears to be related to the degree and duration of immunosuppression. It has been reported that discontinuation of immunosuppression may provide partial regression of the lymphoproliferative disorder. treatment regimen containing multiple immunosuppressants (including thiopurines) should therefore be used with caution as this could lead to lymphoproliferative disorders, some with reported fatalities. combination of multiple immunosuppressants, given concomitantly increases the risk of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated lymphoproliferative disorders.. 5.5 Macrophage Activation Syndrome Macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) (hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis) is known, life-threatening disorder that may develop in patients with autoimmune conditions, in particular with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and there could potentially be an increased susceptibility for developing the condition with the use of mercaptopurine (an unapproved use). If MAS occurs, or is suspected, discontinue Mercaptopurine Tablets. Monitor for and promptly treat infections such as EBV and cytomegalovirus (CMV), as these are known triggers for MAS.. 5.6 Embryo-Fetal Toxicity Mercaptopurine Tablets can cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant woman. An increased incidence of miscarriage has been reported in women who received mercaptopurine in the first trimester of pregnancy. Adverse embryo-fetal findings, including miscarriage and stillbirth, have been reported in women who received mercaptopurine after the first trimester of pregnancy. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Mercaptopurine Tablets and for months after the last dose. Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Mercaptopurine Tablets and for months after the last dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3)].