Imuran 50 mg Tablet (Azathioprine)

Uses of the Imuran Tablets

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

Preventing Organ Rejection: If you have received a kidney transplant, Imuran is used to help prevent organ rejection. It’s typically taken alongside other medications to help your new kidney function properly.

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

Treating Multiple Sclerosis: While not specifically FDA-approved for multiple sclerosis (MS), azathioprine has been used in some 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: Imuran is also used 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?

Imuran tablet functions by suppressing your immune system. This action is particularly helpful in cases such as organ transplants, where it helps your body in accepting the new organ, or in conditions requiring the reduction of inflammation. The exact way Imuran works is not completely understood, but it is believed to interfere with the creation of DNA molecules. This interference plays a key role in suppressing the immune system, helping in the management of conditions where immune response moderation is necessary.

How Should You Take Imuran Tablets?

To ensure the effectiveness and safety of Imuran Tablets, it’s essential to take them exactly as prescribed by your doctor or advised by your pharmacist. If you’re unsure about the dosage or method, always check with your healthcare provider.

The amount of this Tablets you need to take can vary and will be specifically prescribed by your doctor based on the condition you’re being treated for. You have the option 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.

Regular blood tests will be necessary when you’re on Imuran Tablets. These tests are done to monitor the number and type of cells in your blood and to 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. High levels of uric acid can harm your kidneys, so your doctor may adjust your dose based on these test results.

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.