Easy-to-read medicine information about azathioprine – what it is, how to take it safely and possible side effects.
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What is azathioprine?
Azathioprine is an immunosuppressant medication, which means that it weakens the body's defense system or immune response. It is used to treat a number of auto-immune conditions related to an 'over-active' immune system such as Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Auto-immune means that the body 'attacks' itself, without any real known cause or reason. Azathioprine is also used to stop transplant rejection for people who have had transplant surgery. By weakening your immune system it helps your body accept the new organ as if it were your own. Azathioprine is prescribed by a specialist doctor who is experienced in treating the condition. Azathioprine is available as tablets and as an injection.
Dose
- Always take your azathioprine exactly as your doctor has told you.
- The dose of azathioprine will be different for different people.
- Your doctor will work out your dose based on your condition, your weight and your response to treatment.
- The pharmacy label on your medicine will tell you how much azathioprine to take, how often to take it, and any special instructions.
How to take azathioprine
- Take your azathioprine dose once or twice a day, as directed by your doctor. Try to take your dose at the same time each day.
- Swallow your tablets whole with a drink of water. Do not break, chew or crush the tablets.
- Azathioprine is best taken on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 3 hours after food or milk. But, if you find that azathioprine makes you feel nauseous or sick, or gives you stomach upset, try taking your azathioprine dose after food or at bedtime, or ask if you can divide your dose and take it twice a day.
- If you forget to take your azathioprine dose, take it as soon as you remember. But, if it is nearly time for your next dose, just take the next dose at the right time. Do not take double the dose.
- Azathioprine does not work straight away. It usually takes a few weeks or months before you notice the full benefits.
Special instructions
Extra care is needed when taking azathioprine.
- Blood tests: while you are taking azathioprine you will need to have regular blood tests to monitor for side effects and to determine if the treatment is working for you. Blood tests are very important during the first few months of treatment.
- Risk of infections: since azathioprine weakens your body's defense or immune system, you will be more likely to pickup infections. It is important to avoid anyone who is has chickenpox or shingles.
- Alcohol: Azathioprine can affect your liver, so you should avoid heavy alcohol use while taking it. Generally, 1 or 2 standard drinks taken once or twice a week is unlikely to cause problems but drinking more than 4 standard drinks on one occasion, even if its now and again, is strongly discouraged.
- Sun protection: azathioprine makes your skin more sensitive to the sun. Protect your skin when you are in the sun, especially between 10 am and 3 pm. If outdoors, wear protective clothing and use a high factor sunscreen (SPF 30+).
- Pregnancy: make sure you or your partner do not get pregnant if either of you are taking azathioprine. Speak to your doctor about contraception.
- Vaccines: some vaccines should not be given if you are taking azathioprine; always check with your doctor or pharmacist first.
Precautions - before starting azathioprine
- Are you pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breast-feeding?
- Do you have problems with the way your liver or kidneys work?
- Have you had chickenpox or shingles?
- Are you taking other medicines?
- Have you recently had any vaccinations?
If so, it’s important that you tell your doctor or pharmacist before you start azathioprine. Sometimes a medicine isn’t suitable for a person with certain conditions, or it can only be used with extra care.
Possible side effects
Like all medicines, azathioprine can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Often side effects improve as your body gets used to the new medicine.| Side effects | What should I do? |
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Interactions
Azathioprine interacts with some medications and herbal supplements so check with your doctor or pharmacist before you start taking anything new. Check with a pharmacist before taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatories such as diclofenac (e.g. Voltaren Rapid), ibuprofen (e.g. Nurofen), naproxen (e.g. Naprogesic). Taking these together with azathioprine may increase your risk of side effects.
Learn more
The following links have more information about azathioprine. Be aware that websites from other countries may have information that differs from New Zealand recommendations.
Azamun Medsafe NZ Consumer Information Sheet
Azathioprine Arthritis Research UK
Azathioprine Arthritis Australia
References
- azathioprine New Zealand Formulary
- Azamun Medsafe data sheet