What it means
An antimetabolite that slows the making of new immune cells. It is used to prevent rejection of a kidney transplant and for autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn disease, ulcerative colitis and lupus. It can lower white blood cells and platelets, harm the liver and raise the risk of infection and some cancers. A blood test for the enzyme TPMT is often done first, since people with low levels can become very ill on normal doses.
For the nurse
Check blood counts and liver tests as ordered, and teach the client to report fever, sore throat, unusual bruising or bleeding, or yellow skin. allopurinolal-oh-PYOOR-ih-nolA drug that lowers the body's production of uric acid, taken daily to prevent gout attacks and kidney stones.Full entry greatly raises azathioprine levels, so the dose must be lowered if both are used. Handle it as a hazardous drug.
At a glance
| Drug class | immunosuppressant (antimetabolite) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Imuran, Azasan |
| Spanish | azatioprina |
| Also written | Imuran, Azasan |
Related terms
immune system
The body's defense system of cells, tissues and organs that fights germs and other foreign substances.
cyclosporine
An immunosuppressant drug that calms the immune system, used mainly to prevent rejection of a transplanted organ.
allopurinol
A drug that lowers the body's production of uric acid, taken daily to prevent gout attacks and kidney stones.