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Printable Version Imuran

Active Ingredients: Azathioprine
Other Names: Azasan, Imuran
Drug Class: Disease Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: Yes
Product Images & Descriptions:
Pronunciation:

What is/are Imuran?
What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?
How should I use this medicine?
What if I miss a dose?
What may interact with this medicine?
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Where should I keep this medicine?

What is/are Imuran? (Back to top)
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? (Back to top)
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? (Back to top)
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? (Back to top)
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? (Back to top)
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? (Back to top)
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? (Back to top)
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? (Back to top)
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Protect from light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.


Last Updated:August 28, 2007

COPYRIGHT© Gold Standard, An Elsevier Company


Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.

  Additional Information

  Check Drug Interactions with Imuran

  Learn how Imuran is/are used to treat:
  • Lupus
  • Arthritis
  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease

      Test Yourself! If you currently take Imuran, do you know everything that you need to know?

      Make your own printable Medication / Emergency Contact Card



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