Drugs & Vitamins

Imuran Injection Active Ingredients: Azathioprine Injection Representative Names: Imuran Injection What is azathioprine injection? What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? How should I use this medicine? What if I miss a dose? What drug(s) may interact with azathioprine? What side effects may I notice from receiving azathioprine? What should I watch for while taking azathioprine? Where can I keep my medicine? What is azathioprine injection? (Back to top) AZATHIOPRINE (Imuran®) is an immunosuppressive agent. It can suppress or reduce the body's natural immunity, making it less able to fight infections and preventing the rejection of "foreign bodies". Azathioprine 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 azathioprine helps to treat severe rheumatoid arthritis. Generic azathioprine injections are available. What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? (Back to top) They need to know if you have any of these conditions: •any infection •cancer or cancer treatments (radiation) •kidney disease •liver disease •receiving intramuscular injections •recent vaccinations •an unusual or allergic reaction to azathioprine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives •pregnant or trying to get pregnant •breast feeding How should I use this medicine? (Back to top) Azathioprine is for injection or infusion into a vein. It is given by a health-care professional in a hospital or clinic setting. Intravenous injections are replaced by tablets of azathioprine as soon as possible. Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. What if I miss a dose? (Back to top) This does not apply. What drug(s) may interact with azathioprine? (Back to top) •allopurinol •antithyroid agents •carbamazepine •clozapine •medicine for mental problems and psychotic disturbances •medicines that suppress the immune system •hormones such as hydrocortisone, cortisone, fludrocortisone, prednisone •zidovudine, AZT Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines. What side effects may I notice from receiving azathioprine? (Back to top) Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible: •dark yellow or brown urine •black, tarry stools •diarrhea •fever; chills; sore throat •lower back pain •joint pain •mouth sores •muscle pain •pain or difficulty passing urine •stomach pain •swelling of the feet or legs •unusual bleeding or bruising, red spots on the skin •unusual or sudden weight gain •unusual tiredness or weakness •yellowing of skin or eyes Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome): •hair loss •loss of appetite •nausea, vomiting •skin rash, itching What should I watch for while taking azathioprine? (Back to top) Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Your prescriber or health care professional may schedule regular blood checks. Azothioprine can cause blood problems. This can mean slow healing and a risk of infection. Try and avoid anyone with a cold, flu, bronchitis, or who has recently had oral polio vaccine. It is better not to have any vaccinations while you are taking azathioprine. Problems can arise if you need dental work, and in the day to day care of your teeth. Try to avoid damage to your teeth and gums when you brush or floss your teeth. Try and avoid other causes of injury, such as contact sports. If you are going to have surgery, tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking azathioprine. Where can I keep my medicine? (Back to top) Keep out of the reach of children. Use injection solution within 24 hours. Throw away any unused portion. Do not use if solution is discolored or particulate matter is present. Last Updated:01/01/2001 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY© GOLD STANDARD MULTIMEDIA INC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.