Drug reference
azathioprine
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Gastrointestinal Tract (Miscellaneous(GIT))
Mechanism of action
Purine antimetabolite, converted to 6-MP; may inhibit synthesis of DNA, RNA, and proteins; interferes with cellular metabolism; may inhibit mitosis
Common side effects
- Alopecia
- Arthralgia
- Leukopenia
- Infection
- Abdominal pain
Contraindications
- Documented hypersensitivity Pregnancy, lactation Rheumatoid arthritis: Patients previously treated with alkylating agents
Known interactions (6)
- azathioprine + febuxostat Contraindicated
- azathioprine + measles mumps and rubella vaccine Contraindicated
- allopurinol + azathioprine Major
- azathioprine + upadacitinib Major
- azathioprine + hepatitis a vaccine inactivated Moderate
- azathioprine + pneumococcal vaccine 13-valent Moderate
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is azathioprine?
azathioprine belongs to: Gastrointestinal Tract.
How does azathioprine work?
Purine antimetabolite, converted to 6-MP; may inhibit synthesis of DNA, RNA, and proteins; interferes with cellular metabolism; may inhibit mitosis
What are the common side effects of azathioprine?
Alopecia, Arthralgia, Leukopenia, Infection, Abdominal pain
Which drugs interact with azathioprine?
febuxostat, measles mumps and rubella vaccine, allopurinol, upadacitinib, hepatitis a vaccine inactivated, pneumococcal vaccine 13-valent
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