Imuran (Azathioprine) and/or alternatives

General Information On Imuran

An immunosuppressant, Imuran is used to prevent rejection of a kidney transplant and for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. This drug, like other immunosuppressants, works by suppressing the growth of T and B lymphocytes, which are essential parts of our immune system and provide protection from foreign materials and infectious diseases.

A patient who undergoes kidney transplant is prescribed this medicine so that his/her body accepts the kidney as his/her own. In other words, this medicine allows the body to immunologically accept the new organ. Rheumatoid arthritis patients who do not respond well to other medications are also asked by their doctor to buy Imuran and use it. Although the exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, it is widely believed that abnormal autoimmune response is one of the many factors that trigger this condition. As this drug lowers patient’s immune system, it helps in preventing further joint damage and preserving joint function in people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.

Side Effects for Imuran

Common and less serious side effects of this drug include: skin rash, nausea, mild stomach upset, or diarrhea. Some patients who buy Imuran may also experience loss of appetite during the first few days of treatment. You should contact your doctor if you continue to experience loss of appetite or any other aforementioned symptoms or if any of these symptoms become worse.

You should immediately stop the medication and call your doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms: easy bruising/bleeding, fever, sore throat, severe or persistent nausea, severe or persistent vomiting, diarrhea, severe stomach pain, burning sensation or pain while urinating, dark-colored urine, or black/tarry stools.

Although a very serious allergic reaction to this drug is highly unlikely, you must watch out for these symptoms: trouble breathing, hives, or itching/swelling (especially of face, throat, or tongue). In case you notice any symptoms of an allergic reaction then immediately stop the medication and seek medical help.

Precautions

You should not use this drug if you are allergic to Azathioprine (generic name of this drug) or if you have: any type of fungal, viral, or bacterial infection, liver disease, or have received chemotherapy treatments. It is essential that you discuss your medical history with your doctor before using this medicine.

Pregnant women or women who plan to become pregnant while on the treatment should not use this medicine as it can harm an unborn child. Nursing mothers should not use this medicine, unless directed by their doctor.

Imuran Dosage

You should take Imuran as directed by your doctor. To lessen the stomach upset—a common side effect of this drug—you may take this medication with food.

Interactions

Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about the medications you are currently taking, especially if you are using any of the following: trimethoprim (Septra, Proloprim, Bactrim, and others), sulfamethoxasole, methotrexate (e.g. Immunex), cyclosporine (e.g. Sandimmune), allopurinol, warfarin, mercaptopurine, or an ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitor (such as ramipril, moexipril, perindopril, trandolapril, benazepril, captopril, quinapril, or fosinopril).

As this medication may interact with other drugs that are not mentioned in the list above, you must tell your doctor about all prescribed medicines, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal medicines that you are taking. This knowledge will help your doctor in determining if this drug is safe for you or not.

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