Question about TPMT tests....

[traci0531]

So a couple weeks ago my dr had me do a lab test that he said would determine how my body metabolizes 6mp. The office called this week and told me I needed to do a similar test that is the TPMT genetics tests. Has anyone had both of these done? I'm thinking that means the first came back low and the second will determine if I can even process the 6mp. I'm not for sure. I'm sure there are some smarties on here that can help me understand. He said at my last appt if I can't process this, then I will start Humira.

 

[Trish22]

It's the same test for azathioprine (Imuran) it's a test that determines whether the liver can basically tolerate these toxic drugs,this is how I was old by my Gastro,I am on Imuran but can only tOlerate a small dose,they did try me on a larger dose as its based on what your weight is and I went Neutropeanic,I had no immune system left,and basically got taken off the drugs till my immune system returned to normal -scary stuff

 

[traci0531]

Oh that sounds super scary! Gosh, this 6mp sounds so scary to me!

 

[kh216]

Tracee,
Neutropenia means that your blood counts , especially your white blood count, are low. This is why your GI doctor will start you off with a very low 6mp dosage and test your blood count. Blood work is done frequently to monitor your blood count. If your blood count is good, GI doctors can choose to raise the 6 mp level if needed. If your blood level is too low, the GI doctor will either decrease the level or stop the 6 mp. Generally, if you have no blood diseases or are not taking other medications that affect the bllod, your blood count should increase back to normal.

When I was taking 100 mg of 6mp, my white blood count was too low so it was decreased to 75mg. My last blood level was better.

 

[Trish22]

Explained brilliantly kh216. Thank you

 

[traci0531]

Well I had my appointment today and my results aren't back yet, but we're hoping they will be tomorrow so I can get started on the 6mp. My dr says he'll be following my bloodwork closely to make sure my levels are good. Even though I feel there are some scary side effects related to this medicine, I have to stay optimistic and move forward. He says that it will take some time to build up in my system so I'll continue taking my 30mg of Prednisone for now (Boooo) and then slowly taper off. In the end, I just gotta be hopefull that I can tolerate it and it helps! I'm really not wanting to have surgery any time soon.

 

[traci0531]

Well, they just called minutes ago and I had normal results, so I'm starting the 6mp today!!!!