Azathioprine

Uses
Azathioprine (Azathioprine) belongs to a class of drugs called immunosuppressants, and is used to lower the immune system. Although the immune system is important for protection against bacteria and infection, it may attack a transplanted organ, and in some cases, healthy tissue may also be attacked (autoimmune diseases).

Patients are sometimes given this medicine after a kidney transplant, so as to prevent the organ from being attacked, and to allow the body to accept it, and it may also be used to treat Crohn's disease. In addition to this, it is widely used for autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, autoimmune haemolytic anaemia, chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, polymyositis and many other related conditions.

Dosage and Administration
Azathioprine (Azathioprine) comes in the form of 50mg tablets. The dosage will be decided by your doctor, based on your weight, and also the condition requiring treatment, as the correct amount of medicine may be different for each condition. Adults treating systemic lupus erythematosus have sometimes been told to take 1mg to 3mg per kilogram of body weight, once per day, with the exact amount being calculated by the doctor. Treatment of eczema, sarcoidosis, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy and any other conditions is different, and in all cases, full compliance with the dosage regimen given by the doctor is necessary.

Side effects
Taking Azathioprine (Azathioprine) may cause side effects, such as:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loose stools
• Loss of hair
• Appetite reduction

If any side effects occur, tell your doctor. If you experience a painful sensation when urinating, infection, white sores around the mouth or any other side effects, see your doctor immediately.

Precautions
Patients who are undergoing immunosuppressive therapy on a long term basis may be at an increased risk of lymphoma or other types of cancer. Your doctor may advise you to avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun, and to wear protective clothing and apply sunscreen if sun exposure is unavoidable.

Patients affected by liver problems may need to have the function of their liver monitored during treatment with this medication.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Azathioprine (Azathioprine) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.