What is Imuran-50 (Azathioprine IP) used for?

Imuran-50 (Azathioprine IP) is given to recipients of kidney or other organ transplants to prevent the immune system from rejecting the transplant. It works by weakening the immune system, which prevents it from attacking the kidney, and helps the body to accept the kidney. It belongs to a class of drugs called immunosuppressants. It is also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, especially if other drugs have proven unsuccessful, and various types of bowel conditions.

How should I use Imuran-50 (Azathioprine IP)?

The dosage for Imuran-50 (Azathioprine IP) varies, depending on the condition being treated. The tablets are taken by mouth, usually once or twice per day, after eating. Patients using this drug to treat rheumatoid arthritis are usually told to take a low dosage at first, which is sometimes increased after 6 to 8 weeks, and possibly again once every 4 weeks. However, patients taking this drug to stop an organ transplant from being rejected are often prescribed a high dose to begin with, which is then reduced as the body adjusts to the new organ. Follow all instructions, and remember that this drug only prevents organ transplant rejection if it is continuously taken.

What are the side effects of Imuran-50 (Azathioprine IP)?

When taking Imuran-50 (Azathioprine IP), be aware that some side effects may occur, such as:

• Nausea
• Loss of hair
• Liver problems
• Increased vulnerability to infections
• Inflammation of the lungs

Other side effects may also occur. Discuss with your physician what to do if any side effects occur.

Please Note

Using this drug on a long term basis may rarely increase the risk of developing skin cancer. The risk of this occurring is higher in patients that have had an organ transplant, or children or young patients using this drug to treat bowel diseases. All patients should be closely monitored when taking this drug.

This drug may cause serious blood disorders. Discuss the risk of this with your physician.

Strictly follow all instructions provided to you by your physician or pharmacist while using Imuran-50 (Azathioprine IP). Optimum and safe dosage can differ based on the patient and the condition being treated.

As this medication may be unsafe for certain patients, it is essential you always inform your physician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or ongoing health conditions, and if you are taking any other form of medication, supplements, or herbal products.

Immediately seek emergency medical care if you have any allergic or hypersensitive reaction. Common signs of a reaction include hives, swelling, skin rashes, chest pains, as well as trouble breathing or swallowing.