Azathioprine
Overview
Azathioprine is imidazolyl derivative of mercaptopurine. It functions as a structural analog or antimetabolite. As an immunosuppressant, Azathioprine is commonly used in transplant patients but also is useful in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, lupus nephritis, and psoriatic arthritis. Azathioprine is being investigated as an agent to prevent the development of diabetes mellitus. It was originally approved by the FDA in 1968. Adverse effects include bone marrow depression.
Categories
- 8 Antineoplastics, immunomodulators and drugs used in palliative care
Primary Characterstics
Indications
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Pharmacokinetics
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Contraindications
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Side Effects
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Dosage
Azathioprine's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose
|
Single Dose
|
Frequency
|
Route
|
Instructions
|
Adult Dosage
|
| 50 to 300 mg | 180 (175) | As recommended. | IV | Initially for once |
| 200 to 300 mg | 250 (250) | As recommended. | PO | Initially for once. |
| 50 to 300 mg | 180 (175) | 24 hourly | PO,IV | Maintenance, As Required |
Paedriatic Dosage (20kg)
|
| 1 to 4 mg/kg | 2.5 (2.5) | 24 hourly | Intra Venous | |
| 1 to 4 mg/kg | 2.5 (2.5) | 24 hourly | Oral | |
Neonatal Dosage (3kg)
|
| 1 to 4 mg/kg | 2.5 (2.5) | 24 hourly | Intra Venous | |
| 1 to 4 mg/kg | 2.5 (2.5) | 24 hourly | Oral | |
High Risk Groups
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Warning / Precautions
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Storage Conditions
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Interference in Pathology
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Brands / Trade Names of
Azathioprine
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