Imuran

Azathioprine, the active ingredient in Imuran, is an immunosuppressant presented as a tablet for oral use. It is used to prevent organ transplant rejection and to manage autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease and systemic lupus erythematosus.

GNH USA supplies Imuran as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, transplant centres, pharmacies and clinics worldwide.

Azathioprine is employed in several immune‑mediated disease pathways to reduce abnormal immune activity.

Organ transplant rejection: helps maintain graft function by suppressing T‑cell activation. Rheumatoid arthritis: reduces joint inflammation and slows disease progression. Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis): decreases intestinal inflammation and promotes remission. Systemic lupus erythematosus: lowers disease activity by limiting auto‑antibody production.

Azathioprine may cause a range of adverse reactions, from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects: - Nausea or vomiting - Decreased appetite - Mild leukopenia or anemia - Rash or itching - Fatigue

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Severe bone‑marrow suppression leading to infections - Hepatotoxicity with elevated liver enzymes - Pancreatitis - Increased risk of opportunistic infections - Potential for malignancies such as lymphoma

Use of azathioprine requires careful monitoring and patient education.

Monitor blood counts: perform regular CBC to detect leukopenia. Assess liver function: check hepatic enzymes before and during therapy. Avoid live vaccines: immunosuppression can increase infection risk. Use caution in renal or hepatic impairment: dose adjustments may be needed. Review pregnancy and breastfeeding status: discuss risks with the prescriber. Store at room temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture.

Azathioprine interacts with several medicines that can alter its efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Allopurinol or febuxostat: can cause severe myelosuppression. - Mercaptopurine: additive toxicity leading to bone‑marrow suppression. - Warfarin: azathioprine may increase anticoagulant effect.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Corticosteroids: may enhance immunosuppressive effect. - Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): increase risk of renal impairment. - Antacids (aluminum or magnesium): may affect absorption of oral azathioprine.