Imuran

Generic name: Azathioprine

What is Imuran?

Imuran is an immunosuppressant used to prevent rejection of a kidney transplant. It is also used to manage symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis when other medicines do not work.

What is the most important information I should know about Imuran?

Long-term treatment with immunosuppressants such as Imuran can increase the risk of certain cancers. It can also lower your body's ability to fight an infection. In addition, severe blood disorders may occur in people being treated with Imuran.

Who should not take Imuran?

Do not take Imuran if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Imuran should not used for treating rheumatoid arthritis in pregnant women.

Avoid taking Imuran if you have rheumatoid arthritis that has been treated previously with alkylating agents (such as cyclophosphamide, chlorambucil, or melphalan), since this may increase your risk of developing cancer.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Imuran?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Imuran. Also talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if have ever had cancer; blood disorders; or you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Prevention of Kidney Transplant Rejection

Adults: The dose will vary depending on your condition. The initial daily dose is usually 3 to 5 mg/kg (milligrams per kilogram, or 2.2 pounds) of body weight, beginning at the time of transplant. Imuran is usually given as a single daily dose on the day of transplantation, although a small number of people may start the dose 1 to 3 days before receiving a transplant. The maintenance dose is usually 1 to 3 mg/kg daily.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Adults: The initial dose is approximately 1 mg/kg (50 to 100 mg) given as a single dose or on a twice-daily schedule. The dose may be increased, beginning at 6- to 8-week intervals and later at 4-week intervals, if there are no serious side effects and if the initial response is unsatisfactory. Dose increments are usually increased by 0.5 mg/kg daily, up to a maximum dose of 2.5 mg/kg per day.

Maintenance therapy should be at the lowest effective dose. The initial dose can be lowered by 0.5 mg/kg a day or approximately 25 mg daily every 4 weeks while other therapy is kept constant.

How should I take Imuran?

Take Imuran exactly as directed by your doctor. You may take Imuran with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food to reduce stomach irritation.

What should I avoid while taking Imuran?

Because Imuran may lower the ability of your body to fight infection, avoid contact with people who have colds or infections. Tell your doctor if you notice signs of infection like fever, sore throat, rash, or chills.

Talk with your doctor before you receive any vaccine while you are taking Imuran.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Imuran?

If Imuran is taken with certain drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Imuran with the following: aminosalicylates, agents affecting myelopoesis, blood pressure drugs called angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, warfarin, and allopurinol.

What are the possible side effects of Imuran?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: blood disorders such as leucopenia and thrombocytopenia, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, skin rash, alopecia (hair loss)

Can I receive Imuran if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Pregnant women should not take Imuran since this can harm a developing fetus. The use of Imuran in nursing mothers is not recommended.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Imuran?

Ask your doctor for advice.

How should I store Imuran?

Store at room temperature.