AzathioprineWhy are you taking it?
Azathioprine act by damping down inflammation in joints. It has no direct pain relieving effect, so you will need to continue your other arthritis tablets at least for some time. Azathioprine can take three months or longer to have its full effect. If the treatment is suitable, you can stay on it for several years.
How and when is it to be taken?
It is taken in tablet form. It is supplied in either 25mg or more commonly 50mg tablets. The 25mg tablets have a '25' marked on them and the 50mg tablets likewise a '50'. The normal dose of azathioprine is between 50mg and 200mg daily. Azathioprine can be taken as a single daily dose or as two divided doses. Missing the occasional tablet or days treatment does not matter. Don't 'double up' on tablets.
Are there any side effects, and what are they?
All medication can cause side-effects in some people. It is a question of balancing the risk of side-effects against the benefits of treatment. Some side-effects that can be caused by Azathioprine are:
- Nausea, dizziness and fever. This normally settles as you get used to the tablets.
- Blood and liver function problems. This is why you have regular blood tests which would pick-up any problems before they cause you any symptoms. If there is a problem, stopping the tablets usually clears it.
- As with all drugs it is important to avoid becoming pregnant while taking this treatment.
Why is careful monitoring so important?
Monitoring of the effects of your new treatment is important and we need to check your blood tests - this is usually monthly but may vary according to your treatment. The monitoring is for your safety.
If unable to attend, please telephone for another appointment.
If you have any questions, queries or worries about your treatment, please contact your local rheumatology nurse.