Azathioprine (Azathioprine)
Overview of Azathioprine
Azathioprine is imidazolyl derivative of mercaptopurine. It functions as a structural analog or antimetabolite. As an immunosuppressant, Azathioprine is commonly used in transplant patients but also is useful in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, lupus nephritis, and psoriatic arthritis. Azathioprine is being investigated as an agent to prevent the development of diabetes mellitus. It was originally approved by the FDA in 1968. Adverse effects include bone marrow depression.
Indication of Azathioprine
Azathioprine is primarily indicated in conditions like Autoimmune conditions, Derangement of immune system, Nausea and vomiting (prevention), Postmenopausal osteoporosis, Rejection of organ transplants, Suppression of transplant rejection, and can also be given in adjunctive therapy as an alternative drug of choice in Moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis, Prevention of post-operative nausea and vomiting.
Contraindication of Azathioprine
Azathioprine is contraindicated in conditions like Renal failure,Impaired hepatic function.
Side Effects of Azathioprine
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Azathioprine, which give rise to further complications include Liver damage, Pancreatitis.,Azathioprine produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Hematological reactions, Carcinogenicity, Infection, GI reactions. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Azathioprine therapy.,The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Azathioprine include Leucopenia, Bone marrow suppression.,The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Azathioprine are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Alopecia, Myalgia, Skin RashX, Arthralgia.
Precautions of Azathioprine
Azathioprine should be used with caution in patients with medical history especially, liver disease, kidney disease, blood disorders, any infection or any allergy. Azathioprine is not recommended during pregnancy or lactation. Hepatic function should be carefully assessed in patients receiving azathioprine especially in patients with pre-existing hepatic disease. Determination of serum alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin and aminotransferase concentration should be performed periodically.