Does Mercaptopurine Make You Tired?

In the first few months of taking mercaptopurine, you may feel tired and weak because the drug lowers your red blood count and makes you anemic. You may also feel short of breath at times. Talk to your doctor about treatment to help you feel more energetic.

Does mercaptopurine cause fatigue?

Although the medications used for Crohn's can be quite helpful in managing the disease, some can lead to fatigue. Drugs known as immunomodulators — 6-mercaptopurine and azathioprine, in particular — can be associated with fatigue.

When is the best time to take mercaptopurine?

You can take Mercaptopurine with food or on an empty stomach but the choice of method should be consistent from day to day. You should take your medicine at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after having milk or dairy products.