Azathioprine

Drug Name
Azathioprine

Brand Name(s)
Imuran®, generics

Drug Class
Prescription medication

Azathioprine may be used to treat a number of inflammatory conditions such as Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA; formerly known as Wegener’s granulomatosis) and lupus. Azathioprine can also be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but it is no longer commonly used for this condition. Azathioprine works by reducing the ability of immune cells to replicate, suppressing an overactive immune system. The most common side effect associated with azathioprine is nausea. This side effect is transient and should decrease with time, but taking azathioprine with food may help.

This information was last updated in June 2024 with expert review and advice by:

Alan Low, BSc(Pharm), PharmD, ACPR, FCSHP, CCD, RPh
Clinical Professor, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia
Pharmacy Lead and Primary Care Pharmacist, BioPro Biologics Pharmacy 
Care Director, MedInfuse Health

Garrett Tang, PharmD, RPh
Pharmacist Services Coordinator, MedInfuse Health

We also thank previous expert contributor:

Jason Kielly, BSc(Pharm), PharmD
Assistant Professor, School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland
Clinical Pharmacist, Rheumatic Health Program, Eastern Health

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