In this Article

• What is azathioprine (Azasan)?
• What are the possible side effects of azathioprine (Azasan)?
• What is the most important information I should know about azathioprine (Azasan)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking azathioprine (Azasan)?
• How should I take azathioprine (Azasan)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Azasan)?
• What happens if I overdose (Azasan)?
• What should I avoid while taking azathioprine (Azasan)?
• What other drugs will affect azathioprine (Azasan)?
• Where can I get more information?

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking azathioprine (Azasan)?

You should not take this medication if you are allergic to azathioprine.

However, people with autoimmune disorders (including rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriasis) may have a higher risk of lymphoma. Talk to your doctor about your individual risk.

To make sure you can safely take azathioprine, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• liver disease;
• any type of viral, bacterial, or fungal infection; or
• if you have recently received chemotherapy treatments with medications such as cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan), chlorambucil (Leukeran), melphalan (Alkeran).

FDA pregnancy category D. Do not use azathioprine if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

Azathioprine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while you are using azathioprine.

This medication can affect fertility (your ability to have children), whether you are a man or a woman. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns about this.

How should I take azathioprine (Azasan)?

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Take azathioprine with a full glass of water.

Take azathioprine with food to lessen stomach upset.

Azathioprine can lower blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill. Your blood may need to be tested often. Visit your doctor regularly.

If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using azathioprine. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.