Antimetabolite treatment may cause a wide range of toxic side effects. Some eg myelosuppression, are related to drug dose and duration of treatment. Most antimetabolites are not administered on a daily basis, The exceptions are mercaptopurine and its precursor azathioprine.
Some important pharmacological considerations must be considered when administering antimetabolites.
For example, pre-existing renal damage or the presence of malignant effusions can increase the toxicity of methotrexate. Also the use of non-steroidal and anti-inflammatory drugs may delay methotrexate excretion and thereby increase its toxic effects.
For example, the allopurinol treatment greatly potentiates azathioprine and mercaptopurine action by blocking catabolism of these drugs.
Add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation, such as a web address or phone number. This information will always be displayed when you visit this page