What to expect with azathioprine?

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Hi, so I'm starting azathioprine on Wednesday and I'm a bit worried about the side affects. Which side affects are normal and which are bad? Also I know it takes a few months to start working but how many exactly would it take?
 
Depends on your dose. I did a week on 25mg, then moved up to 50mg where I have remained. I experienced no side effects except I recommend avoiding alcohol (or drinking only in moderation). The hangovers are amplified x 100 and I think it is dangerous for your liver. I also find if I overdo things (such as nights out with friends, even if I am not drinking) I seem to come down with illness very easily and a cold that in the past may have lasted a day, would take a week to clear.

Most people experience nausea when they take azathioprine but this usually passes and I was fortunate enough not to experience it at all (probably due to my low dose).

Symptoms to watch out for are extreme pain in the centre of your abdomen - a rare side effect called pancreatitis, which requires immediate hospital attention.

Make sure you get your required blood tests (usually weekly for a while, then every two weeks, then every month, then every 3 months etc). This is to check the medication isn't making you unwell.
 
Hi BT4
For me, aza has been a wonderful drug. After my diagnosis 6 years ago with the usual pain, watery stools, blood and mucus I was put on to aza at 2mg/kg. I've been good ever since - perhaps some fatigue.

Cheers, Thommo
 
Hi BT4
For me, aza has been a wonderful drug. After my diagnosis 6 years ago with the usual pain, watery stools, blood and mucus I was put on to aza at 2mg/kg. I've been good ever since - perhaps some fatigue.

Cheers, Thommo

How long did it take to work?
 
I felt a bit light headed after taking them the first couple of days. After that nothing's happened, good or bad. 4 months so far.
 

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