General Info:

Azathioprine (Imuran) is used with other medications to prevent rejection of kidney transplants. It is also used to treat severe rheumatoid arthritis (a condition in which the body attacks its own joints, causing pain and swelling) when other medications and treatments have not helped. Azathioprine (Imuran) is in a class of medications called immunosuppressants. It works by weakening the body's immune system so it will not attack the transplanted organ or the joints.

If you are taking Azathioprine (Imuran) to treat rheumatoid arthritis, your doctor may start you on a low dose and gradually increase your dose after 6-8 weeks and then not more than once every 4 weeks. If you are taking Azathioprine (Imuran) to prevent kidney transplant rejection, your doctor may start you on a high dose and decrease your dose gradually as your body adjusts to the transplant.

Azathioprine (Imuran) controls rheumatoid arthritis but does not cure it. It may take some time before you feel the full benefit of Azathioprine (Imuran). Azathioprine (Imuran) prevents transplant rejection only as long as you are taking the medication. Continue to take Azathioprine (Imuran) even if you feel well.