Azathioprine injection

What is this medicine?

AZATHIOPRINE (ay za THYE oh preen) suppresses the immune system. It is used to prevent organ rejection after a transplant. It is also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. The injection is given only when the medicine can not be taken by mouth.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection or infusion into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• changes in vision

• confusion

• fever, chills, or any other sign of infection

• loss of balance or coordination

• severe stomach pain

• unusual bleeding, bruising

• unusually weak or tired

• vomiting

• yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• hair loss

• nausea

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• febuxostat

• mercaptopurine

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• allopurinol

• aminosalicylates like sulfasalazine, mesalamine, balsalazide, and olsalazine

• leflunomide

• medicines called ACE inhibitors like benazepril, captopril, enalapril, fosinopril, quinapril, lisinopril, ramipril, and trandolapril

• mycophenolate

• sulfamethoxazole; trimethoprim

• vaccines

• warfarin

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• infection

• kidney disease

• liver disease

• an unusual or allergic reaction to azathioprine, other medicines, lactose, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.

This medicine may increase your risk of getting an infection. Stay away from people who are sick. See your doctor if you get an infection.

Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information.

Men may have a reduced sperm count while they are taking this medicine. Talk to your health care professional for more information.

This medicine may increase your risk of getting certain kinds of cancer. Talk to your doctor about healthy lifestyle choices, important screenings, and your risk.