Febuxostat and Mercaptopurine: Drug Interaction Guide
Quick answer: This is a major interaction — avoid combining Febuxostat and Mercaptopurine unless specifically directed by your doctor.
How Febuxostat interacts with Mercaptopurine
Febuxostat inhibits xanthine oxidase, an important metabolic pathway for mercaptopurine. This can greatly increase thiopurine exposure and cause severe bone marrow suppression.
What you should do
Avoid the combination. Select an alternative urate-lowering therapy or use specialist-directed thiopurine dose reduction with intensive blood count monitoring.
Key facts
Severity
Major — avoid combination
Mechanism
Febuxostat inhibits xanthine oxidase, an important metabolic pathway for mercaptopurine. This can greatly increase thiop...
Action
Avoid the combination. Select an alternative urate-lowering therapy or use specialist-directed thiopurine dose reduction...
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Febuxostat and Mercaptopurine together?
No — this combination should generally be avoided. Avoid the combination. Select an alternative urate-lowering therapy or use specialist-directed thiopurine dose reduction with intensive blood count monitoring.
What is the severity of this interaction?
The interaction between Febuxostat and Mercaptopurine is classified as Major — avoid combination. Febuxostat inhibits xanthine oxidase, an important metabolic pathway for mercaptopurine. This can greatly increase thiopurine exposure and cause severe bone marrow suppression.
What should I do if I'm prescribed both?
Avoid the combination. Select an alternative urate-lowering therapy or use specialist-directed thiopurine dose reduction with intensive blood count monitoring. Always consult your prescribing clinician — do not stop or change medications without medical guidance.
Last reviewed: by iMedic Medical Editorial Team. Our editorial process.