Imuran (Azathioprine)

Description

Imuran is an antimetabolite. It belongs to a class of medications that are known as immunosuppressants. The active component of Imuran is azathioprine.

 

 

 

Uses

 

Imuran is used in treating individuals who have undergone a kidney transplant. It is common for the body to reject foreign organs. The body causes the immune system to attack the newly transplanted kidney. Imuran, as an immunosuppressant, inhibits the actions of the body’s natural defenses. This prevents the body from rejecting its new organ. This allows the kidney to function normally.

 

Imuran is sometimes prescribed for those who are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. It is suggested when other medications have not been effective in reducing the symptoms of the arthritis. This medication can help this particular ailment as it is thought that rheumatoid arthritis is caused by the immune system attacking joints. By inhibiting these natural defenses, Imuran can diminish the symptoms of the condition.

 

Contact your doctor to discover the other benefits that this medication may have for you.

 

Dosage

 

You should always follow the prescription that your doctor has provided you with. You should take Imuran in the quantity that has been directed. Do not take it in smaller or larger doses.

 

This medication should be taken orally.

 

To prevent kidney rejection, the initial dose for Imuran should be between 3 and 5 mg a day per kilo of body weight.

 

It should be taken once a day. A maintenance dose between 1 mg and 3 mg per kg of body weight, a day may be prescribed later.

 

To reduce the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, the initial dose of Imuran should be 1 mg per kg of body weight.

 

The later dose prescribed may be 2.5 mg per kg of body weight.

 

If you have forgotten to take your dose, take it as soon as you remember. If your next scheduled dose is due soon, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses together.

 

In the event of an overdose, contact the emergency services at your local medical services.

 

Side Effects

 

The side effects that may be more commonly experienced when taking Imuran are:

 

 Bleeding in the oral cavity
 Presence of blood in urine
 Presence of blood in stools
 Discomfort in the chest
 Cough
 Fever
 Discomfort in the body
 Difficulty urinating
 Red dots on the skin
 Difficulty breathing
 Discomfort in the throat
 Wounds in or near the mouth
 Enlarged glands
 Unexpected bruising or bleeding
 Sudden onset of fatigue

 

Contraindications

 

 Imuran is not recommended for women who are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and are pregnant. Contact your physician if this applies to you.

 

 Do not take this medication if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in Imuran.

 

 Do not take Imuran if you have previously taken alkylating substances.

 

 There are certain drugs that can cause a negative interaction with Imuran. Do not take febuxostat or mercaptopurine if you have been prescribed this drug.

 

 Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver or kidney disease.

 

 Tell your doctor about any bowel disorders that you may have been diagnosed with.