Azathioprine
It has marked effect on T-lymphocytes, suppresses cell mediated immunity (CMI) and is used primarily as immunosuppressant in organ transplantation, rheumatoid arthritis Azathioprine acts by inhibiting DNA synthesis and thus prevents the proliferation of lymphocytes that occurs in response to the newly introduced antigen (in the case of transplant)Renal transplantations. Autoimmune diseases. Severe rheumatoid arthritis, unresponsive to other drugs.
Renal transplantations : Initially 3-5 mg/kg body-wt followed by 1-3 mg/kg bodywt daily as maint. dose. Rheumatoid arthritis initially 1 mg/kg body wt. as a single dose; if required increase after 6-8 wks by 0.5 mg/kg bodywt. at 4 week intervals to max. of 2.5 mg/kg bodywt. Reduce to minimum effective dose. Chronic active hepatitis : 1-5 mg/kg bodywt. daily. Other conditions : 2-2.5 mg/kg bodywt. daily.
Pregnancy.
Renal or hepatic dysfunction. Avoid exposure to sun. Monitor blood counts regularly. Watch for infections & toxic effects. Paediatrics: Safety not established. Pregnancy: Should not be used. Lactation: Should not be used. Elderly: Use with caution.
G.I. disturbances, hepatotoxicity. Rashes, Myelosuppression.
potentiation of other myelotoxic drugs Reverses effects of tubocurarine. Enhances effects of succinylcholine. Avoid concomitant use of gold,antimalarials,pencillamine.
