Indications
Imuran (active ingredient: azathioprine) is a prescription medication indicated for the following:
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: Imuran is used for the treatment of active rheumatoid arthritis to reduce signs and symptoms in adults.
- Renal Transplantation: It is also indicated for the prevention of rejection in kidney transplantation.
Imuran belongs to a class of drugs known as immunosuppressants, which work by inhibiting the activity of the immune system to prevent the immune response that leads to rejection in organ transplantation and to reduce inflammation in autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.
Uses and Dosage
Imuran tablets should be taken by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily, with food to reduce the risk of stomach upset. The tablets should be swallowed whole with water and should not be split or crushed, as this can result in the release of the medication as dust or powder, which can cause side effects if inhaled. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions regarding the dose and duration of treatment with Imuran and to report any side effects or concerns to them promptly.
The recommended dosage of Imuran (azathioprine) can vary depending on the condition being treated and the individual patient's response to the medication. For kidney transplantation, the typical dosing is 1 mg to 3 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, usually between 50 to 150 mg per day. For rheumatoid arthritis, the typical dosing is 1 mg per kilogram of bodyweight per day, which can be given as a single dose or divided into two doses per day.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Imuran (Azathioprine):
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Feeling of numbness, prickling, or heat
- Flushing
- Mild headache
- Tingling sensation
- Weakness
Serious Side Effects of Imuran (Azathioprine):
- Bloody diarrhea
- Bluish fingers or toenails
- Cold hands and feet
- Fainting
- Hearing changes
- High blood pressure
- Irregular heartbeat
- Mental or mood changes
- Seizure
- Severe abdominal pain
- Signs of stroke
- Weakness on one side of the body
- Trouble speaking
- Confusion
- Sudden vision changes
- Symptoms of heart attack
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Unusual sweating
- Symptoms of serotonin toxicity
- Agitation
- Hallucination
- Loss of coordination
- Muscle twitching
- Palpitation
- Severe vomiting
- Unexplained fever
Form and Strength
Imuran (Azathioprine) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Imuran: Tablet
- 25 mg
- 50 mg
Azathioprine: Tablet
- 50 mg
Caution
- You should inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies to azathioprine or mercaptopurine before taking this medication. Note that some inactive ingredients in the product may also cause allergic reactions or other issues.
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, especially if you have kidney disease, liver disease, cancer, or certain enzyme disorders such as TPMT deficiency or NUDT15 deficiency before using azathioprine.
- Taking Imuran can increase your chance of developing skin cancer. To reduce your risk, limit your exposure to sunlight, avoid using tanning beds and sunlamps, and wear protective clothing when you are outside.
- If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your doctor about your condition, as azathioprine can be harmful to an unborn baby. If you do become pregnant while on azathioprine, contact your doctor immediately to discuss the potential risks and benefits of continuing to take this medication.
- Azathioprine can increase your risk of developing infections, and it can also worsen any current infections you may have. To avoid getting sick, it is recommended to avoid contact with people who have infections that may spread to others, such as chickenpox, measles, and the flu.
- Before getting any immunizations or vaccinations, make sure to inform your healthcare provider that you are taking azathioprine. Also, try to avoid close contact with individuals who have recently received live vaccines, including the flu vaccine that is administered via inhalation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does Imuran work?
Imuran works by suppressing the blood cells that cause inflammation and weaken the immune system.
Can Imuran be used to treat ulcerative colitis?
Imuran has been used to treat ulcerative colitis, either alone or in combination with corticosteroids.
Is Imuran safe to take during pregnancy?
Imuran may not be safe to take during pregnancy, and it is recommended that you speak with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Can Imuran be used to treat myasthenia gravis?
Imuran has been used to manage myasthenia gravis by decreasing the number of antibodies in the body that attack the neuromuscular junction.
Resources
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-13983/imuran-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/imuran.html
- https://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/Treatments/Azathioprine-Imuran
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/016324s034s035lbl.pdf
- https://www.rxlist.com/imuran-drug.htm
- https://www.goodrx.com/azathioprine/what-is
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/9407-azathioprine
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