Azathiol 50mg Tablet
Manufacturer
Knoll Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Salt Composition
Azathioprine (50mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Azathiol 50mg Tablet is an immunosuppressant used to prevent organ rejection after a transplant and to treat rheumatoid arthritis.
Dosage Form
Tablet
Introduction
Azathiol 50mg Tablet works by weakening the body’s immune system to prevent it from attacking a new organ after a transplant. The dosage and frequency depend on the type of transplant. It should be taken with food and regularly to get the most benefit. Common side effects include loss of appetite, nausea, and increased risk of bleeding. It can also increase the risk of infections and some cancers. Azathiol 50mg Tablet can cause birth defects and miscarriages, so it should not be taken if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Consult your doctor if you have any signs of infection or unexpected bruising or bleeding. Regular tests are needed to check for changes in blood cells.
Directions for Use
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush, or break it. Azathiol 50mg Tablet is to be taken with food.
How it works
Azathiol 50mg Tablet is an immunosuppressant. It reduces the action of the body's own defense system (the immune system) and prevents rejection of the transplanted organ. It also blocks the action of certain chemical messengers responsible for inflammation, swelling, and redness associated with certain joint diseases.
Quick Tips
Your doctor has prescribed Azathiol 50mg Tablet to stop the body from rejecting a transplanted organ (e.g., kidney, heart, or liver). Azathiol 50mg Tablet also relieves joint pain and inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. You may have to take additional medications along with Azathiol 50mg Tablet for better relief of symptoms. Avoid contact with people who have cold, flu, or other contagious illnesses. Notify your doctor if you have any signs of infection such as a fever or sore throat. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Azathiol 50mg Tablet prescribed for? How does it work?
Azathiol 50mg Tablet is an immunosuppressant that suppresses the immune defense system. Your immune defense system helps protect you against infections. However, sometimes your immune defense system can become overactive and cause illness. Azathiol 50mg Tablet is used in combination with other medicines to treat conditions caused by this abnormal activity of the immune system. It is used to prevent rejection of transplanted organs, such as the kidney, heart or liver. It is also used to treat chronic active hepatitis, severe rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura and acquired hemolytic anemia. It is also used to treat severe cases of specified skin diseases (pemphigus vulgaris, dermatomyositis, polyarteritis nodosa, pyoderma gangrenosa), especially when corticosteroids cannot be used.
How long does Azathiol 50mg Tablet take to start working?
It may take about 3 to 12 weeks before you see any benefits. Continue the medication even if you do not notice any benefits. Talk to your doctor if you face any issues.
What happens if I forget to take Azathiol 50mg Tablet?
If you miss a dose of Azathiol 50mg Tablet, take it as soon as you remember. However, skip the missed dose if it is time for your next dose. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed dose. Inform your doctor if the dose is frequently missed.
How long do I need to take Azathiol 50mg Tablet?
The duration varies from person to person as it is prescribed depending on the patient's medical condition.
Is breastfeeding safe during Azathiol 50mg Tablet treatment?
No, breastfeeding should be avoided while on Azathiol 50mg Tablet since it may harm the baby and cause serious side effects.
I have just started taking Azathiol 50mg Tablet. What are the long-term side effects? Is there anything I should be looking out for?
Being an immunosuppressant, Azathiol 50mg Tablet can increase the chances of severe infections, decrease in blood cell counts, and malignancy. You should inform your doctor immediately if you notice any infection or fever, unexpected bruising or bleeding, black tarry stools or blood in the urine or stools. Let your doctor know if you notice any new skin sore or lump, new marks on skin or any change in the marks which were previously present.
Do I need any special tests while I am on Azathiol 50mg Tablet?
Azathiol 50mg Tablet reduces the production of blood cells making you more vulnerable to infections and can sometimes affect the liver. These side effects can be monitored by regular blood tests. Therefore, during the first 8 weeks of the treatment your doctor may recommend weekly blood tests to monitor complete blood counts, including platelet counts. The frequency can later be reduced to monthly or at least once in 3 months' time.
Can Azathiol 50mg Tablet cause cancer?
Azathiol 50mg Tablet may increase the chance of developing certain cancers like skin cancer, cancer of the lymph system (lymphoma), cancer of soft tissues (sarcomas), and cervical cancer. To prevent the risk of skin cancer, avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice any changes in your skin or any lumps or masses anywhere on your body.
Can cyclosporine and Azathiol 50mg Tablet be taken together?
Yes, you can take cyclosporine and Azathiol 50mg Tablet together as they do not interfere with each other's working. However, you must take the two medicines strictly as per your doctor’s advice.
