AZATHIOPRINE 50MG 30TAB

Azathioprine 50mg (commonly known by brand names like Imuran or Azasan) is an immunosuppressant medication designed to lower the body’s natural defense system.

• Active Ingredient: Azathioprine (50mg per tablet).
• Drug Class: Immunosuppressive antimetabolite.
• Form: Oral tablets, typically provided in counts of 30, 60, or 100.
• Appearance: Often a pale yellow, peanut-shaped or circular tablet with a score line for easy division.

Azathioprine is primarily prescribed for conditions where the immune system is overactive:

• Organ Transplant Rejection: Used as an adjunct to prevent the body from rejecting a newly transplanted kidney.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Manages severe cases of active rheumatoid arthritis by reducing joint pain, swelling, and morning stiffness.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Frequently used off-label to treat Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
• Other Autoimmune Disorders: May be used for lupus, myasthenia gravis, or certain skin conditions like pemphigus.

It is a “prodrug” that converts into 6-mercaptopurine in the body. It works by disrupting the production of DNA and RNA in rapidly dividing cells, specifically targeting the T and B lymphocytes that cause inflammation or attack foreign tissue.

• Blood Monitoring: Regular blood tests are required to monitor white blood cell and platelet counts, as it can cause bone marrow suppression.
• Genetic Testing: Doctors often perform a [TPMT enzyme test](https://www.labcorp.com) before starting treatment to see how well your body can process the drug and avoid toxicity.
• Side Effects: Common reactions include nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite, which can often be managed by taking the tablet with food.

For more details, view the [Azathioprine guide on Mayo Clinic](https://www.mayoclinic.org).