Dangerous Drug: Thioguanine (TG, 6-Thioguanine)(thye oh gwah’ neen)
Lanvis (CAN), Tabloid
PREGNANCY CATEGORY D
Drug Classes
Antimetabolite
Antineoplastic
Therapeutic Actions
Tumor-inhibiting properties, probably due to interference with a number of steps in the synthesis and use of purine nucleotides, which are normally incorporated into DNA and RNA.
Indications
Remission induction, consolidation, and maintenance therapy of acute nonlymphocytic leukemias—usually used in combination therapy
Unlabeled uses: Crohn’s disease, psoriasis, chronic myelogenous leukemia, second-line treatment of ulcerative colitis
Contraindications and Cautions
Contraindicated with allergy to thioguanine, prior resistance to thioguanine or mercaptopurine, hematopoietic depression, pregnancy (potential mutagen and teratogen), lactation.
Use cautiously with impaired hepatic or renal function.
Available Forms
Tablets—40 mg
Dosages
Adults and pediatric patients 3 yr and older
Total dose may be given at one time. Initial dosage, 2 mg/kg/day PO daily for 4 wk; round dose to nearest 20 mg. If no clinical improvement is seen and there are no toxic effects, increase dose to 3 mg/kg/day. If complete hematologic remission is obtained, institute maintenance therapy. If used as part of combination therapy, suggested dose is 75–200 mg/m2.
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