Amorin 50mg Tablets

Azathioprine is an immunosuppressant, which means it dampens down the immune system.

It is used to treat conditions where the immune system is overactive, such as:

• rheumatoid arthritis
• Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
• lupus, some skin conditions and myasthenia gravis

It is also used after an organ transplant to help stop the body rejecting the new organ. For conditions other than a transplant, it can take a few months to notice an improvement.

Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you, usually once or twice a day.

• Swallow tablets whole with water. Do not chew them.
• Taking it after a meal or snack may help if it makes you feel sick.
• Take it at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after milk or dairy products.
• You will need regular blood tests before and throughout treatment.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless the next dose is nearly due. Never take two doses together. If you miss 2 or more doses, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
• Do not stop taking it without talking to your doctor.

The most common side effect is feeling sick, which usually gets better after about a week. Vomiting and diarrhoea can also happen.

Stop taking it and contact a doctor straight away if you have:

• a high temperature, shivering, cough or sore throat (signs of infection)
• bruising or bleeding more easily than usual
• constant tiredness, dizziness, vomiting or diarrhoea
• changes in urine colour or how much you pass
• joint or muscle pain, or severe tummy and back pain
• new lumps anywhere on your body, night sweats or unexplained weight loss
• swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing (call emergency services)

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it if you:

• have had a reaction to azathioprine or mercaptopurine
• have an infection, a fever or feel unwell
• have liver problems, bone marrow problems or have had cancer
• have been told you have low TPMT or a NUDT15 gene variant (these affect how your body handles azathioprine)
• are due to have surgery or need a vaccine, especially a live vaccine
• take allopurinol, warfarin, ciclosporin, tacrolimus or cancer medicines
• are pregnant, trying for a baby or breastfeeding

Keep in the original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of the reach of children.

Cancer risk: long-term use can increase the risk of some cancers, including skin cancer and lymphoma. Avoid strong sun, use SPF 30 or higher sunscreen and cover up.

Infections and vaccines: you may catch infections more easily. Do not have live vaccines without checking with your doctor.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: it can often be continued in pregnancy and while breastfeeding, but always discuss this with your doctor. Do not stop it on your own.