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The organism after the transplant is extremely weakened, which can lead to a strong autoimmune reaction. Imuran is a medicine that reduces the risk of rejection of a transplanted organ. It also works well for a number of diseases related to the immune system.
Imuran – action and indications
Imuran is a medicine that contains only one substance – azathioprine. It is used in patients who have had organ transplants, including the heart, liver or kidneys. Imuran is an immunosuppressive drug. Usually, the drug is used together with glucocorticosteroids or other preparations and procedures that reduce the immune response. There are cases, however, that it is recommended to use Imuran alone.
Imuran is used in some patients suffering from:
- polyarteritis nodosa,
- systemic lupus erythematosus,
- severe rheumatoid arthritis,
- pemphigus vulgaris,
- autoimmune hemolytic anemia,
- autoimmune active chronic hepatitis,
- dermatomyositis and polymyositis,
- refractory chronic ITP.
Imuran – dosage
Imuran is taken orally in the form of coated tablets. They should not be divided. Specific doses throughout the day are determined by the doctor on the basis of individual activities. If you are taking a high dose of Imuran or if you have liver or kidney failure, you should have a blood count every week. In the next stages of treatment, tests can be done less frequently, but at least once every 3 months.
Imuran – contraindications
Before using Imuran, be sure to tell your doctor that you are taking medications that reduce uric acid production and warfarin. Contraindication to the use of Imuran is also suspected pregnancy and breastfeeding a child. The drug may be taken by pregnant women only when necessary, when alternative medical devices are not indicated. However, this requires consultation with a doctor.
Imuran – side effects
Certain side effects may occur during treatment with Imuran. These include an increased risk of infection and bone marrow depression. In addition, there may be:
- inflammation of the pancreas,
- impaired liver and kidney function,
- hair loss
- malaise and dizziness,
- chills and fever
- diarrhea,
- Heart arythmia,
- joint and muscle pain,
- itchy skin
- vasculitis,
- nausea, vomiting and anorexia
- stagnation of bile,
- drop in blood pressure.
Besides, when taking Imuran for the first time, the functioning of the digestive system may be disturbed. People treated with immunosuppressants are at risk of diverticulitis, colitis, and intestinal perforation. Patients suffering from ulcerative enteritis and using Imuran may encounter severe diarrhea when administering the drug. People after transplantation must take into account that treatment with Imuran may expose them to an increased risk of cancer.
Imuran – dinner
Imuran is available by prescription in packs of 50 mg, 100 film-coated tablets. The price is about PLN 55, but it is subject to a refund. Azathioprine VIS tablets can replace Imuran.
Before use, read the leaflet, which contains indications, contraindications, data on side effects and dosage as well as information on the use of the medicinal product, or consult your doctor or pharmacist, as each drug used improperly is a threat to your life or health.