Prescription items are
NON-RETURNABLE
and
NON REFUNDABLE
What is Azathioprine?
Azathioprine is used to treat autoimmune diseases (diseases in which the body
starts to attack itself) in multiple species including dogs and cats. It is
often used in combination with other drugs to suppress the immune system.
Who is it for?
Azathioprine is for multiple species including dogs and cats.
What are the benefits?
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Medication for the treatment of certain immune-mediated
diseases
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Azathioprine is a prescription drug that lowers immune
system function
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Tablet form Azathioprine allows convenient treatment
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Azathioprine is a prescription immunosuppressive
medication used to treat immune-mediated diseases, such as immune-mediated
hemolytic anemia, certain types of kidney disease, autoimmune skin diseases,
lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. It is often used in conjunction with other
drugs to suppress the immune system.
How does Azathioprine work?
Azathioprine treats certain immune-mediated diseases by means of its active
ingredient. Azathioprine suppresses the immune system to treat disease
conditions triggered by overreaction (over-activity) of the immune system.
Is there a generic equivalent available?
Azathioprine is a generic medication.
How is it given?
Azathioprine is given by mouth. Azathioprine is a very potent medication; wash
hands after handling the medication. Always follow the dosage instructions
provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication,
contact your veterinarian. This medication should only be given to the pet for
whom it was prescribed.
What results can I expect?
Although Azathioprine is a very potent medication, it may take several weeks to
have a noticeable effect.
What should I discuss with my veterinarian
while considering Azathioprine?
Talk to your veterinarian about what type of outcome is expected. Have your
veterinarian explain the other treatment options that may be available to treat
your pet's condition. Understand what physical exams and laboratory testing
will be needed while your pet is taking Azathioprine.
Tell your veterinarian if your pet has liver disease,
pancreatic disease, cancer, may be pregnant or used for breeding.
Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements
your pet is taking. Also, if your pet has had any reactions to previous
medications.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for
the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do
not give two doses at once.
What is the most important information I
should know?
There is a potential for this medication to have serious toxic effects
including bone marrow suppression, bleeding, and increased susceptibility to
infections and cancers. Use exactly as directed and follow up with the
laboratory testing recommended by your veterinarian. Contact your veterinarian
if you notice any side effects.
Who should not take it?
Do not use in breeding or pregnant animals. Use with caution in animals with
liver or pancreatic disease. Use with extreme caution in cats, who are more
susceptible to toxic effects, especially bone marrow suppression and bleeding.
Use milk replacer if the mother is receiving Azathioprine.
What side effects may be seen when taking
Azathioprine?
The most common side effect is suppression of the bone marrow. This may lead to
anemia, with pale gums, weakness, and lethargy; bruising or bleeding
tendencies; and decreased white blood cell counts, which may cause the animal
to be more at risk of infections. Other side effects include vomiting,
diarrhea, poor hair growth, skin rashes, pancreatitis, and liver injury,
perhaps with jaundice (yellowing of the gums, skin, or eyes). Contact your
veterinarian if you notice vomiting, lack of appetite, infections, bleeding or
bruising.
How is it stored?
Store in a tight, light-resistant, childproof container at room temperature.
Keep out of reach of children and pets.