What does it do?

Azathioprine is an immunosuppressant used with other medicines to prevent transplant rejection.

How should you take it?

Take azathioprine regularly as directed with a glass of water. Swallow the tablets whole – do not break, crush or chew.

What if you forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on as normal. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Some medicines available without a prescription may react with azathioprine including:

• trimethoprim

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products (e.g. echinacea) or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Increased risk of infection - symptoms may include: fever, chills, sore throat, aches and pains, tiredness, pain when peeing, mouth ulcers Easy/unusual bruising or bleeding Severe stomach pain Symptoms of liver problems including: yellow skin or eyes, itching, dark urine, pale bowel motions, abdominal pain	Tell your doctor immediately
Skin rash	Tell your doctor
Vomiting, diarrhoea	Tell your doctor if troublesome
Nausea	Take with food

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• Allopurinol (a medicine sometimes prescribed for gout) can cause a serious reaction with azathioprine. Discuss with your doctor.
• Do not stop taking azathioprine unless your doctor at the transplant clinic tells you to. You may have to take azathioprine for the rest of your life.
• Before starting azathioprine you will need to have a blood test to check if azathioprine is suitable for you.
• You will need regular blood tests while taking azathioprine to check if it is causing problems with your liver or blood.
• Protect yourself from too much sunlight while taking immunosuppressant medicines (they may increase your risk of skin cancer). Always cover up and apply a thick layer of broad spectrum sunscreen (at least SPF30) when outside. Do not use sunbeds.
• It is not advisable to get pregnant while taking azathioprine. If you plan to become pregnant, or find you are pregnant, discuss this with your doctor. Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding.
• You have an increased risk of getting an infection while taking azathioprine. Discuss with your doctor.
• Azathioprine affects your immune system. Before you start and while you are using it, check with your doctor what vaccines you might need. You should not have a live vaccine while using it.
• It is important to tell anyone who gives you medical or dental treatment that you are taking azathioprine.