Imuran

Azathioprine, the active ingredient in Imuran, is an immunosuppressant (antimetabolite) 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, oncology centres, pharmacies and clinics worldwide.

Imuran is an immunosuppressive agent indicated for several autoimmune and transplant‑related conditions.

Organ transplant rejection: helps prevent graft rejection by suppressing the immune response. Rheumatoid arthritis: reduces joint inflammation and disease progression. Inflammatory bowel disease: controls symptoms and induces remission in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Systemic lupus erythematosus: diminishes systemic inflammation and organ damage.

Azathioprine may cause a range of adverse reactions, from mild to life‑threatening.

Common Side Effects: - Nausea or vomiting - Loss of appetite - Mild leukopenia or lymphopenia - Rash or pruritus - Fatigue or weakness - Mild hepatic enzyme elevation

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Severe bone‑marrow suppression (pancytopenia) - Hepatotoxicity leading to liver failure - Pancreatitis - Opportunistic infections - Increased risk of malignancies such as lymphoma - Severe hypersensitivity reactions

Before initiating therapy, several safety measures should be observed.

Monitor blood counts: perform regular complete blood count tests to detect marrow suppression. Monitor liver function: assess hepatic enzymes periodically for signs of toxicity. Assess renal function: adjust dosing in patients with impaired kidney function. Pregnancy risk: avoid use in pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks (Category D). Screen for TPMT deficiency: test enzyme activity to guide dosing and reduce toxicity. Store at ambient temperature: keep tablets below 25 °C in the original packaging, protected from moisture.

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

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Allopurinol: may cause severe myelosuppression. - Warfarin: increased anticoagulant effect, raising bleeding risk. - Live vaccines: heightened risk of infection. - Ribavirin: enhanced hematologic toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - ACE inhibitors: possible additive renal impairment. - NSAIDs: may increase risk of renal dysfunction. - Concurrent immunosuppressants: cumulative immunosuppression requiring close monitoring.