Imuran is an antimetabolite. It decreases the effects of certain cells in the body immune system.
Use Imuran only by your doctor prescription.
- Imuran (Azathioprine) may be taken orally irrespective of food intake. But it is better to take it wish food to reduce stomach irritation.
- Your doctor may advise you special guidelines for handling Imuran.
Consult with your health care provider about usage of Azathioprine.
If you miss your usual dose of Imuran, take it as soon as possible. If time for your next dose comes, leap the missed dose and go back to your usual dosing schedule. It is not recommended to take 2 doses at once.
Imuran should be stored at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store Imuran away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep Azathioprine in chid proof place. Keep out of reach of pets.
Imuran Safety information
It is not recommended to use Imuran if you have:
- an allergy to any ingredient in Imuran;
- a tumor or an unusual growth.
Also you should refrain from taking Imuran if you are pregnant.
Imuran is incompatible with mercaptopurine. If you are taking mercaptopurine, you should not take Imuran.
Remember the following:
- Imuran may reduce the ability of your body to fight infection. In period of taking Imuran try to avoid relations with people who have colds or infections. Notify your doctor if you have signs of infection like fever, sore throat, rash, or chills.
- Imuran may lower the number of clot-forming cells (platelets) in your blood. Avoid activities that may induce injury or bruising. Contact your doctor if you have unusual bruising or bleeding or if you have dark, tarry, or bloody stools.
- Give your doctor or dentist notice of taking Imuran before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.
- Tell with your doctor before you receive any vaccine that you are taking Imuran.
- Imuran is not recommended during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Imuran has been shown to cause hurt to the fetus. Try to avoid pregnancy while you are using it. If you suspect you are pregnant, inform your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Imuran while you are pregnant. Do not breast-feed while taking Imuran, as Imuran passes into breast milk.
- Notify your doctor urgently if you develop severe nausea and vomiting. This may occur with or without diarrhea, fever, rash, muscle pain, or dizziness. The first several weeks of therapy may be accompanied with this reaction.
- In rare instances Imuran may enlarge your risk of developing a tumor or other cancer. Tell your doctor immediately about any unusual growths or lumps. Discuss with your doctor any questions or concerns.
- Imuran is broken down in the body with help of special enzyme (TPMT). Occasionally, some patients may have decreased TPMT enzyme activity. This may contribute to the developing serious side effects (e.g., severe bone marrow problems). If you have decreased TPMT enzyme activity, you should take a lower dose of Imuran. In any case discuss this question with your doctor.
- Imuran should be used only by your doctor’s prescription. Do not recommend it other people by yourself.To monitor your condition or check for side effects during you are taking Imuran you may use special lab tests, including complete blood counts, liver function, and TPMT enzyme activity.
- For children Imuran should be used with extreme caution; safety and effectiveness for children have not been confirmed.
- Consult with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse.
Imuran Side effects
Consult with your doctor if any of these highly unlikely but most common side effects persist or become bothersome: mild nausea or vomiting.
The following symptoms or side effects require medical attention or help:
- unusual growths or lumps; severe allergic reactions (difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; rash; itching; hives; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); chest pain or tightness; dark urine; dizziness; fever, chills, or sore throat; increased or painful urination; muscle pain or aches; pale or fatty stools; severe or persistent nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea; yellowing of the eyes or skin; shortness of breath; stomach pain; unusual bleeding or bruising;; unusual weakness or fatigue.
