Imuran Warnings and Precautions

It's important to review Imuran warnings and precautions prior to taking it. This includes knowing that it carries an increased risk of certain types of cancers and may decrease the production of blood cells that are important for the immune system. Imuran warnings and precautions also extend to people with certain allergies or who have taken chemotherapy medications in the past, as well as women who are pregnant.

 

Imuran: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking Imuran® (azathioprine) if you have:
 
  • Taken chemotherapy medications in the past
  • A blood disorder
  • Any infection.
     
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
  • Pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
  • Breastfeeding.
     
Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 

Specific Imuran Warnings and Precautions

Warnings and precautions to be aware of prior to taking Imuran include the following:
 
  • The medication can decrease the body's ability to produce blood cells, including blood cells that are important for the immune system. It is recommended that you have blood tests frequently (weekly for the first month, twice a month for the next two months, and then at least monthly) to check for these problems.
     
  • Imuran works by suppressing the immune system. While this is helpful for preventing kidney transplant rejection or for treating rheumatoid arthritis, it also puts you at a higher risk for infection. Your body may not be able to fight off infection as well as it should. Let your healthcare provider know if you have any signs of an infection during treatment.
     
  • The medication can increase your risk of certain types of cancers, especially skin cancer or lymphomas. Let your healthcare provider know if you have any unusual skin changes or other unusual symptoms.
     
  • Imuran can decrease sperm production in men. This is usually temporary and corrects itself once the medication is stopped.
     
  • Imuran is considered a pregnancy Category D medication. This means that it is probably not safe for pregnant women, although the full risks are not known. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of using the drug while pregnant (see Imuran and Pregnancy).
     
  • Imuran passes through breast milk. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding or plan to start, discuss this with your healthcare provider prior to taking the drug (see Imuran and Breastfeeding).
     
  • Imuran can interact with certain medications (see Imuran Drug Interactions).
     
(Imuran Warnings and Precautions Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;