Imuran (Azathioprine)

What is Imuran?

Imuran is an antimetabolite. It belongs to the group of drugs known as Immunosuppressants.

What is Imuran used for?

Imuran is indicated for the prevention of rejection of a kidney transplant. It is also used for the treatment of symptoms of active rheumatoid arthritis.

How does Imuran work?

Imuran works by abating the body’s immune system and hence, helping the body to accept the new kidney.

How to use Imuran

Strictly follow the instructions given by your doctor and if still in doubt, check with the information leaflet enclosed within.

Imuran is to be taken orally. In case you experience upset stomach, start consuming it with food.

Imuran warnings and precautions

As Imuran affects the immune system, therefore, try and keep away from people having cold or other infections. Imuran also lessens the number of platelets in the body so don’t take up activities that are likely to cause bruises or bleeding.

Before walking in for a dental surgery or any other treatment, make sure your doctor knows about your treatment with Imuran.

Your doctor might recommend some lab tests, so do not miss any of these appointments. These tests are essential to keep a check on the risk of side effects.

An Enzyme known as TPMT is said to break down Imuran. In a few cases it has been seen that the slow rate of this enzyme has led to serious troubles. Check with your doctor as such patients may require a change in dosage.

As the safety and effectiveness of Imuran on children has yet not been verified, therefore, extra care should be taken when dealing with minors.

Pregnant and lactating women must talk to their doctors about the risks involved.

What do I do if I have missed a Imuran dose?

If you have missed your Imuran dose, you should take it immediately. If it’s time for the next dose, skip the missed one and get back to the routine.

What do I do if I have taken a Imuran overdose?

If you have taken an Imuran overdose, you should contact the nearest poison control center or talk to your doctor.

Imuran interactions

The doctor must know about your prescribed and non-prescribed dosages as these drugs might interact with Imuran.

Some drugs like the Alkylating agents are said to interact with Imuran and augment the risk of developing Tumor.

Mercaptopurine, too, is said to react with Imuran and result in severe toxic effects like bone marrow suppression. Also, some medicines are said to increase the risk of Imuran’s side effects. These drugs include aminosalicylates, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, doxorubicin, allopurinol, trimethoprim, or sulfamethoxazole.

Imuran too is believed to diminish the efficacy of Anticoagulants or hydantoins if made to react with it.

Imuran side effects

While all medicines are said to cause side effects, there might be some which will have minor or no side effects at all.

Imuran too is likely to cause side effects; these side effects if persist or become troublesome, should be instantly informed to the doctor. The less serious or common side effects are vomiting and mild nausea.

The severe or major side effects include unusual bleeding or bruising, yellowing of the eyes or skin, dizziness, increased or painful urination, chest pain or tightness, pale or fatty stools, dark urine, shortness of breath, diarrhea, muscle pain or aches, unusual weakness or fatigue, stomach pain, severe or persistent nausea, or severe allergic reactions.