Imuran 50 mg Tablet (Azathioprine)

Uses of the Imuran Tablets

Doctors utilize Imuran tablets, known generically as azathioprine, in the treatment of a range of autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.

Preventing Organ Rejection: If you have received a kidney transplant, your doctor uses Imuran to help prevent organ rejection. You typically take it alongside other medications to help your new kidney function properly.

Treating Rheumatoid Arthritis: For active rheumatoid arthritis, doctors employ Imuran to alleviate symptoms like joint swelling, pain, fatigue, and morning stiffness.

Treating Multiple Sclerosis: While not specifically FDA-approved for multiple sclerosis (MS), some doctors have used azathioprine in MS patients, especially those who have issues with standard FDA-approved medications. It has been shown to reduce the frequency of flare-ups in patients with relapsing-remitting MS and decrease the formation of new lesions as seen on MRI scans.

Treating Other Inflammatory Conditions: Doctors also use Imuran in the treatment of various other inflammatory conditions, including dermatomyositis, systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus), inflammatory bowel disease, and vasculitis (inflammation of the blood vessels).

How Does Imuran Tablet Work?

The Imuran tablet suppresses your immune system. This action particularly helps in cases such as organ transplants, where it assists your body in accepting the new organ or in conditions requiring the reduction of inflammation. Researchers do not completely understand the exact way Imuran works, but they believe it interferes with the creation of DNA molecules. This interference plays a key role in suppressing the immune system, helping manage conditions where immune response moderation is necessary.

How Should You Take Imuran Tablets?

To ensure the effectiveness and safety of Imuran Tablets, you must take them exactly as your doctor prescribes. Your pharmacist advises you on this. If you’re unsure about the dosage or method, always check with your healthcare provider.

Your doctor will specifically prescribe the amount of these Tablets you need to take based on the condition you’re being treated for. You can choose to take Imuran Tablets with food or on an empty stomach, but try to be consistent with your choice each day. If you experience nausea when starting Imuran Tablets, taking them after food may help alleviate this.

You will need regular blood tests when you’re on Tablets. These tests monitor the number and type of cells in your blood and check that your liver is functioning properly. Your doctor might also request other blood and urine tests to see how your kidneys are working and to measure uric acid levels, as these can rise while you’re taking Imuran Tablets. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on these test results since high levels of uric acid can harm your kidneys.

Always swallow your tablets whole; do not chew, break, or crush them. If you or your caregiver handle broken tablets, wash your hands immediately afterwards. For further advice on safe handling or any other concerns, consult your doctor or pharmacist.