Drug Uses

Imuran is an antimetabolite that is used to prevent kidney transplant rejection and certain signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

How it is taken

Imuran must be taken by mouth with a meal to avoid an upset stomach. The best way to use the drug is as recommended by your doctor.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Imuran then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Overdose

Some of the typical symptoms of an Imuran overdose are severe or persistent diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting, unusual bruising or bleeding. Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect an overdose.

Warnings/Precautions
Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances, if you are allergic to any ingredient in Imuran, if you have kidney or liver problems, or gout, have an infection, a history of frequent or prolonged infections, or you have recently had a vaccination, have a history of bone marrow problems, anemia, low white blood cell or platelet levels, or unusual bruising or bleeding, if you have certain enzyme deficiencies (thiopurine methyltransferase [TPMT] or xanthine oxidase) or you have recently had a blood transfusion, if you are taking a disease–modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) (eg, Methotrexate, adalimumab).

You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or are pregnant (after the 3rd month), if you have a tumor or an unusual growth, have rheumatoid arthritis and have used alkylating agents (eg, cyclophosphamide, chlorambucil, melphalan) in the past, or if you are taking mercaptopurine.

Imuran may weaken your immune system and you must avoid contact with people who have infections like cold, chills or rashes.

Imuran may also decrease the number or blood clotting cells (platelets) in your blood and you must avoid situations that may cause bruising or injuries.

If you notice dark, tarry, or bloody stools, then inform your doctor about it.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Imuran and contact your doctor immediately. Imuran is known to cause harm to the fetus.

Certain drugs can interact with Imuran and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.

Imuran is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Imuran should be used with extreme caution in children as the safety and effectiveness of the drug have not been confirmed yet.

Ensure that you inform your doctor and your dentist about Imuran before receiving any form of medical treatment or dental treatment or emergency surgery or vaccination.

The drug increases your chances of getting a tumor so contact your doctor immediately if you spot a lump or unusual growth.

It has been noted that patients with decreased TPMT enzyme activity might need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring throughout the treatment.

Possible Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of are Mild nausea or vomiting.

Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other severe side effects include allergic reactions (rash, itching, hives, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue), chest pain or tightness, dark urine, dizziness, fever, chills, or sore throat, increased or painful urination, muscle pain or aches, pale or fatty stools, severe or persistent nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, shortness of breath, stomach pain, unusual bleeding or bruising, unusual growths or lumps, unusual weakness or fatigue, yellowing of the eyes or skin.

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.