AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM

Drug Name: AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM

AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM DESCRIPTION:
AZATHIOPRINE - INJECTION (aze-uh-THIGH-oh-preen)

COMMON AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM BRAND NAME(S):
Imuran

AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM SIDE EFFECTS:
Nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea or pain at the injection site may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Unlikely but report promptly: hair loss, unusual fatigue, stomach pain, joint or muscle pain, vision changes. Very unlikely but report promptly: yellowing of eyes or skin, darkened urine, unusual bleeding or bruising, lumps/growths. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM:
AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM: AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM may be given by vein (IV) until you are able to take the tablet form by mouth. It is usually given once daily. Dosage is adjusted based on your condition and response. Follow all instructions for proper mixing and dilution with certain IV fluids. Consult your pharmacist. AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM product should be checked visually for particles or discoloration before use. If present, do not use the liquid.

AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM WARNING:
Long-term use of AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM increases the risk of developing neoplasias (cancerous or noncancerous growths). Azathioprine can also cause blood disorders (e.g., leukopenia). Immediately notify your doctor if you develop unusual growths, easy bruising or bleeding, or signs of infection such as persistent sore throat or fever.

AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM USES:
AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM alters the body's immune system so that your body does not reject a transplanted organ. It is also used to treat severe rheumatoid arthritis after other treatments have failed to provide relief.

AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, including: allergies, liver or kidney disease, blood disorders, infections. AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM can lower the body's ability to fight an infection. Notify your doctor promptly if you develop signs of an infection such as fever, chills or persistent sore throat. AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM. AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM is excreted into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all nonprescription and prescription medication you use, especially of: allopurinol, drugs affecting bone marrow (e.g., cotrimoxazole, numerous anti-cancer drugs), "alkylating" type cancer drugs (e.g., melphalan, cyclophosphamide, chlorambucil), other immune suppressants (e.g., cyclosporine), "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin, heparin), ACE inhibitors (e.g., captopril, lisinopril). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM NOTES:
Do not share AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor for side effects or response to treatment.

MISSED AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM DOSE:
If the dose is missed, contact your doctor immediately to establish a new dosing schedule.

AZATHIOPRINE SODIUM STORAGE:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 77 degrees F (15 - 25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. After mixing and dilution in IV fluids (consult your pharmacist for details), this product is stable at room temperature for 24 hours. Discard any unused portion of the vial. Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854-1166. In Canada call 1-800-668-1507.