Imuran (Azathioprine)

What is/are Imuran?

AZATHIOPRINE suppresses the immune system. It is used to prevent organ rejection after a transplant. It is also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• infection
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to azathioprine, other medicines, lactose, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Continue to take your medicine even if you feel better. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following:

• mercaptopurine

This medicine may also interact with the following:

• allopurinol
• aminosalicylates like sulfasalazine, mesalamine, balsalazide, and olsalazine
• leflunomide
• medicines called ACE inhibitors like benazepril, captopril, enalapril, fosinopril, quinapril, lisinopril, ramipril, and trandolapril
• mycophenolate
• sulfamethoxazole; trimethoprim
• vaccines
• warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What side effects may I notice from this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• fever, chills, or any other sign of infection
• severe stomach pain
• unusual bleeding, bruising
• unusually weak or tired
• vomiting
• yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• hair loss
• nausea

This list may not describe all possible side effects.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. You will need frequent blood checks during the first few months you are receiving the medicine.

If you get a cold or other infection while receiving this medicine, call your doctor or health care professional. Do not treat yourself. The medicine may increase your risk of getting an infection.

Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information.

Men may have a reduced sperm count while they are taking this medicine. Talk to your health care professional for more information.

This medicine may increase your risk of getting certain kinds of cancer. Talk to your doctor about healthy lifestyle choices, important screenings, and your risk.

Where should I keep this medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.