Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: AZATHIOPRINE - ORAL (aze-uh-THIGH-oh-preen)
BRAND NAME(S): Imuran
Warning | Medication Uses | Other Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
WARNING: Long-term use of this medication increases the risk of developing neoplasias (cancerous or noncancerous growths). Azathioprine can also cause blood disorders (e.g., leukopenia). Immediately notify your doctor if you develop unusual growths, easy bruising or bleeding, or signs of infection such as persistent sore throat or fever.
USES: Azathioprine is used to prevent rejection of transplanted organs and for cases of severe arthritis that do not respond to other therapies.
OTHER USES: This medication may also be used to treat ulcerative colitis and for other purposes as determined by your doctor.
HOW TO USE: Azathioprine tablets should be taken with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not stop taking the medication without your doctor's approval.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite or diarrhea may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Unlikely but report promptly: hair loss, unusual fatigue, stomach pain, joint or muscle pain, vision changes. Very unlikely but report promptly: yellowing of eyes or skin, darkened urine, unusual bleeding or bruising, unusual lumps or growths. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis - Learn more about rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that causes chronic joint inflammation, which has symptoms that include stiffness, fever, muscle and joint aches, loss of appetite, and fatigue. Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis incorporates the use of first-line drugs (aspirin and corticosteroids for pain and inflammation) and second-line drugs (methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine to prevent joint destruction and promote remission).
- Drugs: What You Should Know About Your Drugs - Find out what you should know about your drugs such as side effects, warnings and precautions, storage information, and if a generic version is as good as the brand name.
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
Interactive Slideshows