Azathioprine Oral Tablet (AZATHIOPRINE - ORAL)

Instructions

Take the medicine with 250 mL (1 cup) of water.

You may take with food to prevent stomach upset.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

This medicine can make you sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen or protective clothing when in sun.

It may take several months for this medicine to fully work.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients on this medicine have developed severe, life-threatening infections. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.

This medicine may increase the risk of cancer. Ask your doctor about the benefits and risks.

There is an increased risk of bleeding while on this medicine, please tell your doctor or nurse if you notice any excessive bleeding or bruising.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

This medicine can cause birth defects. Speak with your doctor about birth control methods that should be used while on this medicine.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Women who are pregnant or in their childbearing years should not touch or handle this medicine. This medicine can be absorbed through the woman's skin and harm the unborn baby.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

• decreased appetite
• hair loss
• nausea and vomiting

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

• loss of balance
• bleeding or bruising
• confusion
• diarrhea
• fever or chills
• fast or irregular heart beats
• signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
• pale or blue skin, lips or fingernails
• seizures
• skin changes - a darker area with uneven edges or coloring
• change in the size or color of a skin mole
• sore throat
• slurred speech
• blurring or changes of vision
• severe or persistent vomiting

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.