Does azathioprine cause fatigue?
Drugs known as immunomodulators — 6-mercaptopurine and azathioprine, in particular — can be associated with fatigue. Others medications, such as corticosteroids like prednisone, contribute to fatigue in part by causing sleep problems. Review your current medication list with your doctor.
Does azathioprine make you weak?
These observations suggest that the development of muscular weakness in patients on azathioprine should be considered as an adverse effect of the drug. Failure to recognize this adverse outcome can lead to prolonged periods of muscular weakness in this group of patients.
Can azathioprine cause sleeplessness?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately: unusual bleeding or bruising; excessive tiredness; pale skin; headache; confusion; dizziness; fast heartbeat; difficulty sleeping; weakness; shortness of breath; and sore throat, fever, chills, and other signs of infection.
Does Imuran help with fatigue?
It works by suppressing the blood cells that cause inflammation. Azathioprine is used to reduce signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, such as joint swelling, pain, tiredness, and duration of morning stiffness. Azathioprine is commonly known by the brand name Imuran®.
Is 50mg of azathioprine a lot?
The usual dose is 150-200 mg a day but the dose can vary depending on your weight and tolerance of the medication. Start with one 50 mg tablet daily usually in the morning with a meal. After one week, you should have your blood drawn.
Does Imuran make you gain weight?
No, Imuran (azathioprine) itself is not causing your weight gain.
How do I know if azathioprine is working?
You may not feel any different at first, however azathioprine is likely to be working. If you take it after a transplant you will not notice any benefits from the medicine itself. However, as the transplanted organ begins to work, you will usually begin to feel a lot better.
What is the best time of day to take azathioprine?
Azathioprine is best taken on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 3 hours after food or milk. But if azathioprine makes you feel nauseous (sick), try taking it after food or at bedtime, or ask your doctor if you can divide your dose and take it twice a day.
How long can you stay on Imuran?
If tolerated, you will probably be on azathioprine for up to 5 years. Do not stop taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to, even if you feel well.
Is Imuran an alternative to prednisone?
Imuran and prednisone belong to different drug classes. Imuran is an immunosuppressive antimetabolite and prednisone is a corticosteroid. Side effects of Imuran and prednisone that are similar include nausea or vomiting.
What happens when you stop taking Imuran?
If you stop taking it suddenly: If you’re taking this drug for a kidney transplant and you stop taking it suddenly, you may experience transplant rejection and kidney failure. If you’re taking this drug for rheumatoid arthritis and you stop taking it suddenly, your symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis may come back again.
Does Imuran lower your immune system?
Imuran weakens your body’s immune system, to help keep it from “rejecting” a transplanted organ such as a kidney. Organ rejection happens when the immune system treats the new organ as an invader and attacks it. Imuran is used to prevent your body from rejecting a transplanted kidney.
What types of side effects are associated with Imuran?
Increased risk of certain types of cancer. Using Imuran for a long time may increase your risk of skin cancer and lymphoma.
How long does Imuran take to give the effect?
It takes 6 to 12 weeks for Imuran to start working. The maximum effect can take up to 6 months. If a doctor changes the dose, it can take another 8 to 12 weeks to feel the effects. It is important for people starting this medicine to be patient and continue taking it as prescribed.
Does Imuran cause weight loss?
Weight loss is found among people who take Imuran, especially for people who are female, 60+ old , have been taking the drug for 1 – 6 months, also take medication Prednisone, and have Stress and anxiety.
Is Imuran an immunosuppressive medication?
Imuran is an anti-inflammatory immunosuppressive that can decrease joint damage and disability in people with lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and other conditions. In addition, Imuran has proven to clearly improve lupus affecting the liver and kidneys.