Azathioprine 50mg

Azathioprine 50mg — Uses and Benefits

Azathioprine is prescribed for conditions where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues, and to prevent rejection after organ transplants.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Preventing rejection of transplanted organs such as kidney
• Rheumatoid arthritis that has not responded to other treatments
• Inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
• Certain autoimmune conditions like lupus and autoimmune hepatitis
• Some skin and blood disorders caused by immune overactivity

HOW IT WORKS

• It suppresses the immune system by interfering with the growth of certain immune cells
• This reduces inflammation and prevents the immune system from attacking healthy tissue or a transplanted organ
• The full effect may take several weeks to become noticeable

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller and does not give immediate relief from pain
• It is not used for common infections
• It is not a first-line treatment for mild allergies
• It should not be used without medical supervision for any condition

How to Use Azathioprine 50mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once or twice a day
• Swallow the tablet with a glass of water
• Take with food if it causes stomach upset
• Do not stop taking it suddenly without consulting your doctor, even if you feel well
• Regular blood tests are usually needed to monitor blood counts and liver function while on this medicine

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue as usual
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• Inform your doctor if you miss doses frequently

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Dispose of unused medicine safely, do not flush down the drain

Azathioprine 50mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Mild stomach discomfort
• Feeling generally unwell

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Hair thinning
• Skin rash
• Muscle or joint pain
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Signs of infection such as fever, chills, or sore throat
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or blood in urine/stool
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (signs of liver problems)
• Severe stomach pain (may indicate pancreas problems)
• Severe weakness, breathlessness, or unusual paleness (may indicate low blood counts)
• Signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, or difficulty breathing

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Azathioprine 50mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified doctor.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to azathioprine or mercaptopurine
• Have a known deficiency of the TPMT enzyme without dose adjustment guided by your doctor
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless specifically advised by your doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any current infection
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have a history of low blood counts
• Are planning pregnancy or are currently pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have had cancer in the past
• Are taking any other medicines, including herbal or over-the-counter products

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Allopurinol (used for gout) can dangerously increase azathioprine levels
• Warfarin and other blood-thinning medicines
• Other immunosuppressant medicines
• Certain antibiotics like co-trimoxazole
• ACE inhibitors used for blood pressure

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid or limit alcohol as it may increase the risk of liver problems.

How long do I need to take this medicine?

Duration varies by condition and is decided by your doctor, ranging from months to years.

Will this medicine increase my risk of infections?

• Yes, since it suppresses the immune system, you may be more prone to infections, so report any signs of infection promptly.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.