Imuran (Azathioprine) is an immunosuppressive agent. Imuran can suppress or reduce the body\\\'s natural immunity, making it less able to fight infections and preventing the rejection of \\\'foreign bodies\\\'.

Imuran reduces unwanted immune responses and helps to prevent rejection in patients who receive organ transplants. The response of the immune system may contribute to arthritis, and Imuran helps to treat severe rheumatoid arthritis.

Imuran contains the active ingredient azathioprine, which is a type of medicine called an immunosuppressant. Imuran is used to dampen down the activity of cells in the immune system.

The immune system normally recognizes and protects the body from foreign substances such as bacteria and viruses. Imuran also recognizes and attacks transplanted tissue and cells that have become cancerous.

Sometimes however, the immune system can react excessively, or mount an attack against normal healthy tissues.

Take Imuran tablets by mouth. Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. If Imuran upsets your stomach, take Imuran with food or milk.

For transplant rejection:

Adults, teenagers, and children:
Imuran dose is based on body weight or size. The usual beginning dose is 3 to 5 milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) (1.5 to 2 mg per pound) of body weight a day. As time goes on, your doctor may lower your dose to 1 to 3 mg per kg (0.5 to 1.5 mg per pound) of body weight a day.

For rheumatoid

You should tell your doctor what medicines you are taking, including those bought without a prescription and herbal medicines, before you start Imuran . Likewise, always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medicines during your treatment.

The blood level of Imuran is greatly increased if it is taken with allopurinol. If you are taking both these medicines together your doctor will prescribe you a lower than normal dose of Imuran to prevent the increased blood level and increased risk of side effects.

Imuran

Most Important Fact about Imuran
Take Imuran exactly as prescribed. It is important that you take all the prescribed amount of Imuran to obtain the maximum benefit.

Imuran precautions if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Women should use effective contraception to avoid getting pregnant and men should use effective contraception to avoid fathering a child during treatment with Imuran . Women who do get pregnant while they or their partner is receiving treatment should consult their doctor immediately. Imuran

More common side effects of Imuran may include:

• cough or hoarseness,
• fever or chills,
• lower back or side pain,
• painful or difficult urination,
• unusual tiredness or weakness

Less common side effects of Imuran may include:

• black, tarry stools,
• blood in urine or stools,
• pinpoint red spots on skin,
• unusual bleeding or bruising

Rare side effects of Imuran may include:

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