Imuran
Developed to target immune system activity, utilized to mitigate inflammation in autoimmune processes and to support transplant rejection prevention.
- Category
- Autoimmune Support
- Active ingredient
- Azathioprine
- Supply
- Rx
- Route
- Oral use
- Form
- Film-coated tablet
- Strengths
- 25 · 50mg
Imuran details
- Therapeutic class
- Immunosuppressant
- Pharmacological class
- Purine Analogue
- Known off-label uses
- crohn's disease
- Minor side effects
- nausea; fatigue; infection
- Moderate side effects
- leukopenia; thrombocytopenia; elevated liver enzymes
- Dosage forms
- Film-coated tablet
- Administration route
- Oral use
- Supply category
- Prescription only (specially controlled medicine)
- Manufacturer
- Aspen Pharma
- Onset Time
- 2–4 weeks
- Duration
- 24 hours
- Storage instructions
- Store below 25°C in original packaging.
- Drug interactions
- allopurinol; warfarin
- Age restrictions
- Used in children and adults under specialist supervision.
Contraindications
hypersensitivity to azathioprine; severe infections; severe bone marrow suppression
Precautions and warnings
monitor full blood count; limit sun exposure due to skin cancer risk; report any signs of infection immediately
Serious side effects
bone marrow suppression, requires immediate medical attention; malignancy, requires immediate medical attention; pancreatitis, requires immediate medical attention
Patient summary
Developed to target immune system activity, utilized to mitigate inflammation in autoimmune processes and to support transplant rejection prevention.
Mechanism of action
Azathioprine is a purine analogue that interferes with DNA synthesis, thereby inhibiting the proliferation of rapidly dividing cells such as T-lymphocytes necessary for immune responses.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Use only if benefits outweigh risks. Breastfeeding: Small amounts excreted; specialist advice required.
Where this medicine is registered
- Singapore
- Hong Kong
- Thailand
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Indonesia
- Taiwan
- South Korea
- Japan
- Australia
- New Zealand
- UAE
- South Africa
About Imuran
Imuran is the original brand of azathioprine, a medicine used for managing transplant rejection, rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Produced by Aspen Pharma, this treatment is available as a tablet in 25mg and 50mg strengths. Clinical usage focuses on the management of chronic conditions where immune response requires careful control.
Imuran availability in Asia
Imuran is registered across 14 markets including the Philippines, Indonesia and Taiwan, with availability also in South Korea, Japan and the UAE. Generic azathioprine, often produced in India, serves as a consistent and more affordable alternative to the original brand, offering practical options for expats living far from a fully stocked pharmacy. This medication is best used under a doctor’s care to ensure correct management of the underlying condition.