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thioguanine - oral

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GENERIC NAME: THIOGUANINE - ORAL (thigh-oh-GWAN-een)

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used along with other drugs to treat a certain type of cancer (acute nonlymphocytic leukemia). Thioguanine belongs to a class of drugs known as purine antagonists. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with or without food with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters), usually once daily or as directed by your doctor.Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Doing so may help decrease the risk of side effects (e.g., kidney stones).The dosage is based on your body weight, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and the risk of serious side effects may be increased.Since this drug may be absorbed through the skin and lungs, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication or breathe the dust from the tablets. Properly discard any unused medication. Ask your pharmacist for details.

SIDE EFFECTS: Upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: easy bruising/bleeding, dizziness/fainting, joint pain/swelling, persistent nausea/vomiting, stomach/abdominal pain, tongue/mouth sores or pain, unusual tiredness, dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin.This medication can lower the body's ability to fight an infection. Tell your doctor promptly if you develop any signs of an infection such as fever, chills, or persistent sore throat.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

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. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.