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Azithioprine (Imuran)
- uses
- mechanism
- dose and half-life
- side effects
- counter-indications
- metabolism and excretion
- dependency
Uses
- used as adjunct for prevention of graft rejections; of little use once graft rejection has begun
- idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Mechanism
Azathioprine is metabolized to 6-mercaptopurine, inhibiting purine synthesis and thereby DNA synthesis. Cell proliferation is therefore attenuated, particularly in lymphocytes and neutrophils.
- suppresses IL-2
Dose and Half Life
- available orally
Side Effects
- leukopenia
- thrombocytopenia
- infection
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- fetal harm
- pancreatitis
long term
- renal transplant patients are at risk of neoplasia
Contraindications
Allopurinol can cause toxic levels by inhibiting xanthine oxidase.
Metabolism and Excretion
- renal and hepatic excretion