Pharmacist's advice about azathioprine


Transplant Unit

Azathioprine


This information reflects practice at Addenbrooke’s and may not be applicable at other hospitals.

Why is this drug prescribed?

Azathioprine is a potent immunosuppressive or anti-rejection drug. It suppresses the white blood cells which trigger a rejection response to the transplanted organ. It is important to continue taking azathioprine regularly to help prevent rejection of your transplanted organ.

How to take azathioprine

The dose has been worked out especially for you . The amount taken varies between patients and depends upon your weight. The dose may be reduced after a few months or if your white blood cell count becomes too low.

Azathioprine is usually taken once a day, at approximately the same time each day. It is best to take azathioprine with or just after some food and with a full glass of water.

What to do if you forget a dose or take too much

If you forget a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, miss out the forgotten dose and continue as normal. Tell the doctor about this at your next clinic visit.

If you accidentally take a larger dose than recommended tell your doctor immediately.

Possible side effects of azathioprine

As with any medication side effects are possible. This means you may experience some or none of the following side effects:

Azathioprine can harm the bone marrow’s ability to produce blood cells. Report any unexpected bleeding or bruising to your doctor. Your blood cell count will be monitored via your blood test results and your azathioprine dose may be altered.

Very rarely azathioprine can harm the liver. Your doctor will be monitoring you closely using your blood tests. Report any signs of jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pains or skin itching to your doctor.

Hair thinning. Usually your hair will recover. Avoid perms or hair dyes for the first few months as your hair will be weak and may fall out.

Mouth sores. Use soft toothbrushes , good oral hygiene and regular six monthly dental check-ups.

Stomach upsets (this may include feeling or being sick, indigestion and diarrhoea) - always take azathioprine with or just after food.

Increased risk of developing infections may occur with all anti-rejection drugs. Report any signs of infection (e.g. sore throat) to your doctor.

Increased risk of developing skin lesions may occur with all anti-rejection drugs. Use a sunscreen protection factor 15 or higher. Report any skin lesions or lumps to your doctor.

Taking other medicines with azathioprine

Generally most other medicines can be safely taken with azathioprine, however always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medicines.

*Allopurinol (also known as Zyloric, a drug used for gout) interferes with azathioprine so if you are taking this you will be given a lower than normal dose of azathioprine.

*Rifampicin (a type of antibiotic) may also interfere with azathioprine.

If you are have questions or concerns about azathioprine please do not hesitate to ask the doctor or pharmacist or nurse.

Azathioprine is also known as Imuran.

Credits

Disclaimer