Azahexal

Generic Name: Azathioprine
Product Name: Azahexal

Indication

Azathioprine is used for the following conditions:Suppression of the immune system in:

• Severe rheumatoid arthritis.
• Systemic lupus erythematosus.
• Dermatomyositis and polymyositis.
• Autoimmune hepatitis.
• Pemphigus vulgaris.
• Polyarteritis nodosa.
• Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia.
• Autoimmune thrombocytopenic purpura.
• Prevention of organ transplant rejection.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
• Behcet’s syndrome.

Action

Azathioprine suppresses the immune system and reduces inflammation.

Dose advice

• The hematologic response should be monitored to guide dosing. Bone marrow suppression will limit the dose that can be given.
• The initial recommended dose is 2-3 mg/kg once daily given either orally or intravenously.
• Maintenance dosing is 1-3 mg/kg or the minimum dose required to control the disease or prevent transplant rejection.
• Renal impairment: Dose reductions may be necessary.
• Hepatic impairment: Dose reductions may be necessary.

Schedule

S4

Common side effects

• Increased susceptibility to viral, fungal and bacterial infections.
• Hair loss.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Diarrhoea.
• Loss of appetite.
• Mouth ulceration.
• Inflammation of the Oesophagus.
• Skin rashes.
• Anaemia.

Uncommon side effects

• Hepatitis.
• Severe anaemia.
• Pancreatitis.Allergic reactions such as:
• Fevers.
• Rigors.
• Muscle and joint aches.
• Rash.
• Cough.
• Breathlessness.
• Low blood pressure.
• Abnormal liver function.
• Abnormal heart rhythm.
• Kidney dysfunction.
• Increased risk of skin cancers and certain other types of cancer.

For further information talk to your doctor.