Let’s Talk about an Immunosuppressant – Azathioprine
Azathioprine is an immunosuppressant, which means it suppresses the immune system. Immunosuppressants work by calming (or controlling) the immune system in your body. This medication is used to treat inflammatory illnesses such rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis, as well as severe liver, skin, and artery inflammation. If you've undergone a transplant, azathioprine can help you avoid your body rejecting the new organ. Azathioprine is also used to treat skin diseases like lupus and atopic eczema.
Azathioprine is only available with a prescription and you can get it from in office pharmacy dispensing. A professional doctor will most likely prescribe this medication to you. It is available in tablet form. It can also be given as an injection, however this is normally only done in a hospital setting.
Important information
Before and during your therapy, you'll have routine blood tests. After a few weeks, depending on why you're taking it, you should see a difference in your condition.
If you have been in contact with somebody who has chickenpox or shingles while taking azathioprine, contact your doctor very away.
Wear sunscreen if you're taking azathioprine because it can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
Who Can Take Azathioprine and Who Can't
Azathioprine is safe for most adults and children. Before you start taking this prescription, you will have a blood test to ensure that it is safe for you.
Some people should avoid taking this medication. Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to azathioprine or any other medicines (including mercaptopurine, a medicine for treating blood cancer)
have an infection or a high temperature, or are feeling generally unwell
have any unusual bleeding or bruising
have ever had any liver problems
have ever had cancer
have a condition that affects your bone marrow
Contraindications with other medications
Some drugs may be affected by azathioprine. Other medications may have an effect on how azathioprine works.
If you:
Take allopurinol (a gout medicine);
Consume tacrolimus or ciclosporin
Take warfarin for preventing blood clots
Undergoing chemotherapy or cancer treatment
Soon to undergo a surgery
Have recently received or will get any vaccines (especially a "live" vaccine)
Ask us at PD-RX Pharmaceuticals for in—office pharmacy dispensing for this medicine. Follow us for your medicine requirements.
**Disclaimer: The information on this page is not intended to be a doctor's advice, nor does it create any form of patient-doctor relationship.