Azathioprine for Vasculitis

About your Medicine

Azathioprine is used to treat vasculitis, a condition causing renal failure that can be caused by different conditions (see the vasculitis page). Azathioprine is used to try and improve kidney function and to dampen down vasculitis, stopping it from causing any further damage to the body. Azathioprine is also taken as an immuno-suppressant following a transplant (see separate page).

You should NOT be vaccinated with some vaccines whilst receiving azathioprine. (Vaccines are injections that can be given to help prevent you catching some diseases, for example, polio). For vaccines you can and cannot have see the vaccine page.

NEVER stop taking azathioprine unless told to by the hospital consultant. If you stop taking it you will lose your kidney.

Taking your Medicine

You should swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water, with meals. Do not chew the tablets. Your recommended daily dose should be taken as a single dose at teatime.

Take the tablets exactly as directed by your doctor. Please read the label carefully.

If you forget to take a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is nearly time to take the next one. Never take two doses at the same time. Take the remaining doses at the correct times.

Your doctor may want to take regular blood samples while you are taking azathioprine to make sure that dose is OK for you.

Unwanted effects

Azathioprine may cause side effects in some patients. Most side effects are nothing to worry about. Common side effects are feeling sick, being sick and loss of appetite. Taking the tablets with food should reduce this. Other rare, more serious side effects include fever, rashes, decrease in blood cell numbers and liver or kidney problems that are noticed by changes in your blood tests.

You are more likely to develop infections whilst receiving azathioprine and any infections may be worse than normal. You should report any signs of infection to your doctor. You should report any unexpected bruising, bleeding, or rashes to your doctor.

You should avoid sunbathing and use a sunblock in sunny weather. You are recommended to see your doctor about regular skin checks and cervical smears for women. This is because you are more likely to develop skin or cervical cancers which are not serious if noticed.

All tablets may cause side effects in some people. If you think that you are suffering from a side effect of one of your tablets it is important NOT to stop taking the tablet, but see your doctor who will be able to change that tablet for one which will suit you better.

Storing your tablets

Store all your tablets in their original containers, in a cool dry place out of the reach of children. Only remove them from the bottle/box when it is time to take them.

Always take your tablets as directed by your doctor and only stop them on the advice of your doctor.

NKF Controlled Document No. 69, Azathioprine for Vasculitis, written 22 April 2000. Last reviewed 10 March 2010.

The National Kidney Federation cannot accept responsibility for information provided. The above is for guidance only. Patients are advised to seek further information from their own doctor.

The National Kidney Federation is registered in England and Wales as a Company limited by guarantee (Company No 5272349)
and awarded charitable status (Charity Number 1106735).

Give as You Earn contributions No. CAF GY511.

Page created: 22 April 2000

Last updated: 25 January 2010

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