GENERIC NAME: THIOGUANINE - ORAL (thigh-oh-GWAN-een)
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
USES: Thioguanine is used to treat certain types of leukemia.
HOW TO USE: This is a potent medication. Take it exactly as prescribed. Unless your doctor instructs you otherwise, drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. This helps your kidneys to remove the drug from your body and avoid some of the side effects. Do not stop taking this medication, even if you feel nauseated or experience vomiting. If you vomit shortly after a dose, contact your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, skin rash and itchiness are common side effects. Taking the drug on an empty stomach with a full glass of water may help relieve vomiting. Changes in diet, such as eating several small meals or limiting activity may help lessen some of these effects. In some cases, drug therapy may be necessary to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. Contact your doctor without delay if you experience any of the following symptoms: fever, chills, painful or difficult urination, easy bruising or bleeding, black tarry stools, blood in urine or stools, lower back or side pain, cough, sores in mouth or on lips, yellowing eyes or skin, joint pain, swelling of feet or lower legs, unsteady walking. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking thioguanine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: a certain enzyme deficiency (thiopurine methyltransferase - TPMT). Contraceptive (birth control) measures are recommended for use in men and women while taking this medication. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor. It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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