Your doctor may have prescribed you a medicine called Azathioprine . When you hear this name, you may be a little scared, wondering, “What kind of medicine is this?” But don’t worry. Today, we’ll learn everything about this medicine in a very simple way, just like talking to a friend. This will answer many of your questions.
Simply put, what is Azathioprine?
Azathioprine (sometimes known by the brand name Imuran®) is a medicine that suppresses the activity of your body's immune system . Simply put, our immune system sometimes becomes overactive and starts attacking our own cells. This is what happens in conditions like Multiple Sclerosis ( MS ).
So what this Azathioprine drug does is to control the overactive immune system a little bit . We call this an `immunosuppressive` drug. Studies have found that this drug helps reduce flare-ups and new lesions in the brain in conditions like MS. It is sometimes used in combination with other drugs.
How exactly do I use this medicine?
Azathioprine is a medicine that comes in the form of tablets and is taken by mouth. The dose you are prescribed is determined by factors such as your weight and the number of white blood cells in your blood.
- Starting dose:Usually, your doctor will start you on a very low dose. Then, gradually, they will increase the dose to suit your body.
- Frequency of taking: Most people are told to take it twice a day.
- Take with food: It is best to take this medication with food to reduce the risk of stomach upset and nausea.
- Most importantly: When you are given medication, it is very important to take it exactly as directed on the label, at the right time, and in the right amount . Do not increase or decrease the dose as you feel like it, or stop taking it suddenly without your doctor's advice.
Remember, taking this medicine exactly and as prescribed has a major impact on the success of your treatment.
Be especially careful about these things when taking medication.
Please pay attention to these points while using this medicine to ensure your safety and get the maximum benefit from the medicine.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: This is very important. If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding, it is definitely not a good idea to take Azathioprine . Be sure to talk to your doctor about this.
- Regular blood tests : Your doctor will ask you to have regular blood tests. These check things like your white blood cell count and liver function . This will help you know in advance how well the medicine is working for you and whether you are having any side effects. So, never skip these blood tests .
- Protect yourself from infections: Since this medicine suppresses your immune system, you may be more susceptible to illnesses, especially infections. Therefore, stay away from people who have colds and flu. Be careful when going to crowded places.
- Other medications: Be sure to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking (even vitamins). Some medications, especially those for high blood pressure ((such as ACE inhibitors ) can have adverse effects when taken with this. So discuss everything openly with your doctor.
- Vaccinations: Do not get any vaccinations without your doctor's approval. Some vaccines are incompatible with this medication.
- Don't let your medication run out: Make sure you have enough medication before the holidays and festive seasons. Don't wait until you're close to running out.
Side effects and when to notify the doctor
First of all, most people tolerate this medication well. Not everyone will experience all of these side effects. Also, because your doctor is constantly monitoring you, any problems that arise can be caught before they become serious.
Pay attention to the symptoms in the table below. If any of these persist or become severe, tell your doctor immediately.
| Side effect/symptom | Simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Stomach upset, nausea, vomiting | This is normal when you first start taking the medication. It can be reduced by taking the medication with food. If it is severe, tell your doctor . |
| Appetite | Decreased desire to eat. |
| Changes in hair | Hair loss, color, or texture changes may occur. This is usually temporary. |
| Mouth sores | Sores inside the mouth or on the lips. |
| Unusual bruising or bleeding | Unexplained bruising, blood in urine or stool. This can be a serious symptom. |
| Frequent fatigue | Feeling more tired than usual. |
| Cancer risk | There may be a very small increase in the risk of developing some types of cancer when using the drug for a very long time (e.g., more than 10 years). Your doctor is constantly monitoring this. |
| Fever and chills | Body temperature above 38°C (100°F), sweating, and chills. |
| Cough and sore throat | Dry or phlegmy cough, sore throat that lasts more than two days. |
| Skin problems | Skin rash, non-healing wounds, redness, swelling. |
| Urinary problems | Burning, pain when urinating, frequent need to urinate, blood or a foul odor in the urine. |
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take the next dose at your regular schedule. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take two doses at once. Ask your doctor if you are unsure.
How to store the medicine?
- Keep at room temperature.
- Keep away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.
- Do not place it in places with high humidity, such as the bathroom or near the kitchen sink.
- Keep the medicine in the same bottle it came in, tightly closed.
- Keep it out of reach of small children. This is very important.
- Do not use expired medicine.
Take-Home Message
- Azathioprine is an important medication that controls your immune system. So , take it exactly as your doctor tells you to.
- Do not stop taking the medication or change the dosage on your own.
- Avoid using this medicine completely during pregnancy or while breastfeeding .
- Don't skip any blood tests your doctor orders. They protect you.
- If you notice any signs of infection, such as fever, cough, or body aches, notify your doctor immediately.
- It is imperative to inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
👩🏽⚕️ Additional questions (FAQs)
💬 What is Azathioprine used for?
Azathioprine is a powerful immunosuppressant that reduces the activity of the immune system, which protects our bodies from diseases. This medicine is especially given to people who have received a kidney or organ transplant from someone else to prevent rejection.
💬 Is this medicine also given for other diseases?
Yes, this medicine is also used very successfully to control severe diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Crohn's disease, which are autoimmune diseases in which our own immune system attacks our own body.
💬 How should I protect myself while taking this medicine?
Because this medicine lowers your immunity, you can get seriously ill from a common cold or flu. Therefore, it is very important to wear a mask when going to crowded places, stay away from sick people, and stay clean.
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