Imuran

Azathioprine, the active ingredient in Imuran, is an immunosuppressant presented as a unknown strength/unknown form for oral use. It is used to prevent organ transplant rejection and to manage rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease in adult patients.

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

Azathioprine is employed across several immune‑mediated conditions where suppression of the immune response is required.

Organ transplantation rejection prophylaxis: helps prevent acute and chronic rejection episodes after solid‑organ transplant. Rheumatoid arthritis: reduces joint inflammation and slows disease progression. Inflammatory bowel disease: controls symptoms and induces remission in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

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

Common Side Effects: - Nausea or vomiting - Decreased white blood cell count (leukopenia) - Elevated liver enzymes - Fatigue or weakness - Mild rash or itching - Diarrhea

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Severe bone marrow suppression (pancytopenia) - Hepatotoxicity or liver failure - Increased risk of opportunistic infections - Potential development of malignancies such as lymphoma - Severe hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., Stevens‑Johnson syndrome)

Patients should be monitored regularly for hematologic and hepatic parameters, and dose adjustments may be required based on laboratory results.

Baseline laboratory testing: obtain complete blood count and liver function tests before initiating therapy. Regular monitoring: repeat CBC and LFTs every 1–2 weeks during dose titration, then monthly. Infection vigilance: advise patients to report signs of infection promptly. Vaccination guidance: avoid live vaccines while on therapy. Pregnancy and lactation: discuss risks with a healthcare professional before use. Store at ambient temperature: keep in original container, protect from moisture and heat.

Azathioprine interacts with several drug classes that can alter its efficacy or increase toxicity.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Allopurinol or febuxostat: may cause severe bone marrow suppression. - Thiopurine methyltransferase (TPMT) inhibitors: increase risk of myelosuppression. - Live vaccines: heightened risk of infection.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Warfarin: may enhance anticoagulant effect, monitor INR. - Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum: may reduce absorption. - Ribavirin: potential additive hematologic toxicity.