title: The effect of food on the oral administration of 6-mercaptopurine.
abstract: The effect of food on the bioavailability of 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP) has been investigated. Seven patients were studied on two separate occasions. On the first occasion 6-MP was administered p.o. after an overnight fast and on the second, 15 min after a standard breakfast. 6-MP concentrations were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. Variable plasma drug levels were observed between individual subjects in the fasting state. The peak levels of 6-MP were lower and took longer to be achieved following administration after a standard breakfast than after an overnight fast. In two subjects levels were undetectable (less than 20 ng/ml). In view of these observations it is suggested that 6-MP should be administered before food if maximum blood levels are to be achieved.
mesh_terms: D000284:Administration, Oral; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001682:Biological Availability; D002648:Child; D005502:Food; D006801:Humans; D015122:Mercaptopurine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000378:metabolism*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010865:Pilot Projects
chemical_list: D015122:Mercaptopurine