- Drug Name: Azathioprine
- Common Name: Imuran®
- Drug Type: Immunosuppressant
- Used For: Immune-mediated diseases
- Species: Dogs
- Available Forms: 50 mg tablets
- FDA Approved: No
General Description
Azathioprine works to suppress the immune system when it is attacking your pet’s own body. It is used to treat disorders in dogs such as hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, some chronic liver, kidney, and stomach / intestinal diseases, and arthritis and skin diseases caused by a immune-mediated issue. It may be used very cautiously and at low doses in cats to treat immune-mediated skin disorders.
Like any immunosuppressant, this drug will make your pet more susceptible to infections. Closely monitor your pet for illness, fever, or changes in behavior while on this drug.Azathioprine works to suppress the immune system when it is attacking your pet’s own body. It is used to treat disorders in dogs such as hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, some chronic liver, kidney, and stomach/intestinal diseases, and arthritis and skin diseases caused by a immune-mediated issue. It may be used very cautiously and at low doses in cats to treat immune-mediated skin disorders.
Like any immunosuppressant, this drug will make your pet more susceptible to infections. Closely monitor your pet for illness, fever, or changes in behavior while on this drug.
Azathioprene is typically given long-term. It may take up to 6 weeks before you see an effect with this drug.
How It Works
Azathioprine works by suppressing the cells that produce antibodies in your pet’s body. This reduces their body’s ability to create an immune response. Diseases where your pet’s immune system is attacking things it shouldn’t are then put to a stop.
Storage Information
Store in a tightly sealed container at room temperature away from heat and moisture.
Missed Dose?
Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give your pet two doses at once.
Side Effects and Drug Reactions
Azathioprine may result in these side effects:
- Pale nose or gums
- Jaundice
- Infections due to suppressed immune system
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Bruising
Azathioprine may react with these drugs:
- Atracurium besylate
- Pancuronium bromide
- Vecuronium bromide
- Allupurinol
- Succinylcholine chloride
USE EXTREME CAUTION WHEN ADMINISTERING THIS DRUG TO CATS - Use with extreme caution and only with the recommendation of an experienced veterinarian. Azathioprene’s immunosuppressing effects tend to be more severe in cats and may be dangerous.