AZORAN TAB 10 S

About

Azathioprine is an immunosuppressive antimetabolite medication used to prevent organ rejection in transplant recipients and to treat various autoimmune diseases. It acts as a prodrug, being converted in the body to 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP), which then interferes with nucleic acid synthesis. This disruption primarily affects rapidly proliferating cells, such as lymphocytes, thereby suppressing the immune response. Its mechanism involves inhibiting DNA and RNA synthesis, leading to a reduction in the number and function of T and B lymphocytes.

The therapeutic effects of azathioprine are often delayed, taking several weeks to months to become apparent. It is crucial for patients to undergo regular monitoring of blood counts, liver function, and renal function due to its potential for myelosuppression and hepatotoxicity. Dosage adjustments are frequently necessary based on individual patient response and tolerability, often guided by genetic testing for thiopurine methyltransferase (TPMT) activity to minimize adverse effects.

Uses

• Prevention of organ transplant rejection
• Treatment of severe rheumatoid arthritis
• Management of inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis)
• Treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus

Directions For Use

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily. Do not crush or chew the tablet.

Benefits

• Effective in preventing transplant rejection
• Reduces inflammation in autoimmune diseases
• Helps maintain remission in chronic conditions
• Reduces reliance on corticosteroids
• Available in oral form for long-term management
• Well-established efficacy in various indications

Side Effects

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Hair loss
• Rash
• Fever
• Chills
• Sore throat
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Yellowing of skin or eyes
• Dark urine

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Alcohol consumption should be limited or avoided as it may increase the risk of liver toxicity, a known side effect of azathioprine.
• Pregnancy - Azathioprine is generally not recommended during pregnancy due to potential teratogenic effects and risks of myelosuppression in the fetus. Discuss risks and benefits with a specialist.
• Breastfeeding - Azathioprine and its metabolites are excreted in breast milk. Breastfeeding is generally not recommended due to potential risks to the infant, including immunosuppression.
• Liver - Azathioprine can cause hepatotoxicity, including cholestasis and liver enzyme elevations. Regular monitoring of liver function tests is essential, and dose adjustments or discontinuation may be necessary in patients with liver impairment.
• Kidney - Use with caution in patients with renal impairment, as dose adjustments may be required. Impaired kidney function can affect the elimination of azathioprine metabolites, increasing toxicity risk.
• Lung - Rarely, azathioprine can cause interstitial pneumonitis. Patients developing new or worsening respiratory symptoms should be evaluated promptly.

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