Imuran

Lupus Nephritis, Pericarditis, Uveitis + 5 more

Treatment

3 FDA approvals

20 Active Studies for Imuran

What is Imuran

Azathioprine

The Generic name of this drug

Treatment Summary

Azathioprine is a drug used to treat inflammation and suppress the immune system. It was first created in 1956 and has been used to treat conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and to help prevent organ rejection in kidney transplant patients. Azathioprine is approved by the FDA and has been used since 1968.

Imuran

is the brand name

image of different drug pills on a surface

Imuran Overview & Background

Brand Name

Generic Name

First FDA Approval

How many FDA approvals?

Imuran

Azathioprine

1968

50

Approved as Treatment by the FDA

Azathioprine, otherwise called Imuran, is approved by the FDA for 3 uses like Kidney Transplant Rejection and Rheumatoid Arthritis .

Kidney Transplant Rejection

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Kidney Transplantation

Effectiveness

How Imuran Affects Patients

Azathioprine is a drug that lowers the body's natural immunity. It should be taken daily and should be used with caution, as it has a small margin of safety. People taking this drug should be aware of the possible risks of developing skin cancer or lymphoma.

How Imuran works in the body

Azathioprine stops cells from making certain molecules that are necessary for the body's immune system. It also makes it harder for B and T cells to survive. A molecule made by the body when azathioprine is taken, 6-thioguanine triphosphate, also stops these cells from staying alive. This is thought to be due to a protein called rac1, which works with NF-kappaB to control the immune system.

When to interrupt dosage

The suggested measure of Imuran is contingent upon the determined ailment, including Atopic Dermatitis, Kidney Transplantation and Crohn's Disease. The amount as well depends on the mode of delivery (e.g. Tablet, film coated - Oral or Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution - Intravenous) featured in the table beneath.

Condition

Dosage

Administration

Lupus Nephritis

50.0 mg, , 75.0 mg, 100.0 mg, 10.0 mg/mL, 25.0 mg, 100.0 mg/mL

, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Oral, Powder, for solution, Intravenous, Powder, for solution - Intravenous, Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution, Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution - Intravenous, Tablet, film coated, Tablet, film coated - Oral, Suspension - Oral, Suspension

Pericarditis

50.0 mg, , 75.0 mg, 100.0 mg, 10.0 mg/mL, 25.0 mg, 100.0 mg/mL

, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Oral, Powder, for solution, Intravenous, Powder, for solution - Intravenous, Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution, Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution - Intravenous, Tablet, film coated, Tablet, film coated - Oral, Suspension - Oral, Suspension

Uveitis

50.0 mg, , 75.0 mg, 100.0 mg, 10.0 mg/mL, 25.0 mg, 100.0 mg/mL

, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Oral, Powder, for solution, Intravenous, Powder, for solution - Intravenous, Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution, Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution - Intravenous, Tablet, film coated, Tablet, film coated - Oral, Suspension - Oral, Suspension

Kidney Transplantation

50.0 mg, , 75.0 mg, 100.0 mg, 10.0 mg/mL, 25.0 mg, 100.0 mg/mL

, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Oral, Powder, for solution, Intravenous, Powder, for solution - Intravenous, Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution, Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution - Intravenous, Tablet, film coated, Tablet, film coated - Oral, Suspension - Oral, Suspension

Multiple Sclerosis

50.0 mg, , 75.0 mg, 100.0 mg, 10.0 mg/mL, 25.0 mg, 100.0 mg/mL

, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Oral, Powder, for solution, Intravenous, Powder, for solution - Intravenous, Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution, Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution - Intravenous, Tablet, film coated, Tablet, film coated - Oral, Suspension - Oral, Suspension

Rheumatoid Arthritis

50.0 mg, , 75.0 mg, 100.0 mg, 10.0 mg/mL, 25.0 mg, 100.0 mg/mL

, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Oral, Powder, for solution, Intravenous, Powder, for solution - Intravenous, Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution, Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution - Intravenous, Tablet, film coated, Tablet, film coated - Oral, Suspension - Oral, Suspension

Crohn's Disease

50.0 mg, , 75.0 mg, 100.0 mg, 10.0 mg/mL, 25.0 mg, 100.0 mg/mL

, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Oral, Powder, for solution, Intravenous, Powder, for solution - Intravenous, Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution, Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution - Intravenous, Tablet, film coated, Tablet, film coated - Oral, Suspension - Oral, Suspension

Psoriasis

50.0 mg, , 75.0 mg, 100.0 mg, 10.0 mg/mL, 25.0 mg, 100.0 mg/mL

, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Oral, Powder, for solution, Intravenous, Powder, for solution - Intravenous, Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution, Injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution - Intravenous, Tablet, film coated, Tablet, film coated - Oral, Suspension - Oral, Suspension

Warnings

Imuran Contraindications

Condition

Risk Level

Notes

Severe Hypersensitivity Reactions

Do Not Combine

Azathioprine may interact with Pulse Frequency

Alkylating Agents

Do Not Combine

There are 20 known major drug interactions with Imuran.

Common Imuran Drug Interactions

Drug Name

Risk Level

Description

2-Methoxyethanol

Major

The risk or severity of adverse effects can be increased when Azathioprine is combined with 2-Methoxyethanol.

9-(N-methyl-L-isoleucine)-cyclosporin A

Major

The risk or severity of adverse effects can be increased when Azathioprine is combined with 9-(N-methyl-L-isoleucine)-cyclosporin A.

Abetimus

Major

The risk or severity of adverse effects can be increased when Azathioprine is combined with Abetimus.

Acteoside

Major

The risk or severity of adverse effects can be increased when Azathioprine is combined with Acteoside.

Aldosterone

Major

The risk or severity of adverse effects can be increased when Azathioprine is combined with Aldosterone.

Imuran Toxicity & Overdose Risk

The lowest toxic dose of a drug in mice is 2500mg/kg and 400mg/kg in rats. Overdosing on the drug can lead to a reduced number of cells in the bone marrow, bleeding, and infection, which can eventually cause death. Treatments include supportive and symptomatic treatments as well as hemodialysis, which can remove 45% of the drug from the bloodstream.

image of a doctor in a lab doing drug, clinical research

Imuran Novel Uses: Which Conditions Have a Clinical Trial Featuring Imuran?

There are 430 active trials currently assessing the potential of Imuran to manage Rejection; Transplant, Kidney, Uveitis and Crohn's Disease.

Condition

Clinical Trials

Trial Phases

Crohn's Disease

54 Actively Recruiting

Phase 1, Phase 2, Not Applicable, Phase 3, Phase 4, Early Phase 1

Rheumatoid Arthritis

55 Actively Recruiting

Not Applicable, Phase 4, Phase 3, Phase 2, Phase 1

Lupus Nephritis

24 Actively Recruiting

Phase 3, Phase 2, Phase 1, Phase 4

Pericarditis

1 Actively Recruiting

Phase 2, Phase 3

Kidney Transplantation

0 Actively Recruiting

Uveitis

3 Actively Recruiting

Not Applicable, Phase 3

Multiple Sclerosis

127 Actively Recruiting

Phase 3, Not Applicable, Phase 4, Phase 2, Phase 1, Early Phase 1

Psoriasis

0 Actively Recruiting

Imuran Reviews: What are patients saying about Imuran?

5

Patient Review

3/4/2016

Imuran for Ulcerated Colon

Ulcerative proctitis was my diagnosis in 1985, which then progressed to UC in 2012. I tried various treatments like canasa, anusol, budesonide, uceris, and more; none of them helped much. However, once I started Imuran (100mg daily) about 15 months ago in addition to Lialda, I've been in remission for the most part. This has improved my quality of life immensely--I almost feel normal again!

5

Patient Review

10/6/2017

Imuran for Ulcerated Colon

I've had Ulcerative Colitis for six years now. Prednisone helped to get things under control, and Imuran has been a really stable medication during my remission. I've been using it for three years with no known side effects, which is great.

5

Patient Review

4/17/2014

Imuran for Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Imuran finally allowed me to get a clean colonoscopy after fifteen years of struggling with UC. I've also been able to go for runs without flareups for the first time in years, which is amazing. The only downside is that I sometimes experience some joint pain in my hips afterwards; however, this could just be due to the fact that I'm 50 years old and not necessarily related to the Imuran.

5

Patient Review

3/1/2015

Imuran for Ulcerated Colon

This drug was my last hope, and it really worked. I had tried everything else before this, and nothing helped.

4.7

Patient Review

11/4/2015

Imuran for Prevent Kidney Transplant Rejection

I've been on imuran for 32 years to prevent organ rejection, and it's definitely effective. The only downside is that I've developed 7 skin cancers and my skin is looking increasingly brown and spotted. My dermatologist says this isn't from the imuran, but I'm not so sure.

4.7

Patient Review

11/11/2015

Imuran for Crohn's Disease

I've been on imuran since 2006 and it's been great. I haven't had any issues except for some diarrhea and short gut B-12 deficiency, but I think that has more to do with the surgery than the Imuran. This is by far the best stretch of time I've had since being diagnosed in 1968.

4.7

Patient Review

2/5/2016

Imuran for Prevent Kidney Transplant Rejection

I've been taking Imuran for over 35 years in conjunction with Prednisone. It's been effective for me, even though I've had to deal with treatable skin cancers a few times.

4.7

Patient Review

8/22/2015

Imuran for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

I've been managing my lupus with this medication for a while now, and it seems to help. I'm always a little worried about potential side effects, but so far so good.

3.3

Patient Review

5/13/2017

Imuran for Crohn's Disease

I started to experience some negative side effects after just a few days of taking the 50mg dosage. These included abdominal pain and swelling, red blotches on my forearms, and small bumps. I've since lowered my dosage to 25mg and have been taking it for four days with no issues.

3

Patient Review

6/11/2014

Imuran for Crohn's Disease

I experienced a lot of heat flashes, sweating, joint pain, abdominal pain, bloating, and easy bruising.

2.3

Patient Review

12/31/2014

Imuran for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

About an hour after taking the medication, I became incredibly nauseous and vomited uncontrollably for nearly half an hour. Additionally, I experienced extreme disorientation and had difficulty walking. Thankfully, a kind bystander helped me to the emergency room where I was hospitalized for five days.

2.3

Patient Review

7/15/2017

Imuran for Rheumatoid Arthritis

While this does help to control my arthritis, it unfortunately also causes my blood sugar levels to spike. I also have a hard time tapering off the medication because I swell up and become ravenous.

2.3

Patient Review

9/26/2015

Imuran for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

I have a heart condition and take Imuran 50mg every day, but my symptoms have only gotten worse. My doctors don't seem to care--they're just telling me to keep taking the drug so that they can collect insurance. Has anyone else had hallucinations from this drug? I see things moving that I know are stationary. For example, bridges moving 20 feet in the air while I'm driving. It's scary. Somebody please help me.

1

Patient Review

2/13/2015

Imuran for Inflammatory Bowel Disease

I had a really severe reaction to this medication. I was hospitalized and it was honestly a really scary experience. Definitely not something I would recommend to anyone.

1

Patient Review

5/26/2014

Imuran for Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Unfortunately, this medication did not work at all for me. In fact, it made me feel much worse and I was incredibly sick the whole time I took it. Thankfully, I found alternative treatments that have helped me immensely.
image of drug pills surrounding a glass of water symbolizing drug consumption

Patient Q&A Section about imuran

These questions and answers are submitted by anonymous patients, and have not been verified by our internal team.

What are the long term side effects of Imuran?

"If you experience any of the following health problems, you should see a doctor right away: muscle loss, hair loss, cold or numbness in the fingers, mouth sores, difficult or painful swallowing, or greasy stools."

Answered by AI

What is the drug Imuran used for?

"Azathioprine is a medication used to treat diseases related to the immune system. It is sometimes used in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) who have not had success with standard FDA-approved medications."

Answered by AI

What drug class is Imuran?

"Azathioprine, marketed under the brand name Imuran, is an immunosuppressive medication. It works by weakening the body's immune response. This is important after a kidney transplant, as it prevents the body from attacking the new kidney."

Answered by AI

What is the difference between Imuran and prednisone?

"The two drugs Imuran and prednisone have different purposes and side effects. Imuran is designed to suppress the immune system while prednisone is a corticosteroid. However, both drugs can cause nausea or vomiting."

Answered by AI

Clinical Trials for Imuran

Image of University of Illinois at Chicago in Chicago, United States.

Functional Balance Intervention for Multiple Sclerosis

40 - 90
All Sexes
Chicago, IL

The study involves a two-arm, Phase 1, randomized controlled clinical trial designed to establish the feasibility and effects of a Functional Balance Intervention (FBI) on physical and cognitive function, as well as measures of daily living among persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Combined Specific Aims: Aim 1: Examine the effect of the FBI (Intervention Group) on physical function in PwMS compared to a stretching program (Control Group). Hypothesis 1: After four months of training, the FBI group will show significantly greater improvements in physical function compared to the stretching group. Aim 2: Examine the effect of the multicomponent FBI on cognitive function in PwMS compared to the stretching program. Hypothesis 2: After four months of training, the FBI group will show significantly greater improvements in cognitive function compared to the stretching group. Aim 3: Examine the effects of the multicomponent FBI compared to the Control Group among PwMS on measures of daily living (dual-task performance, balance confidence, community mobility, and quality of life). Hypothesis 3: After four months of training, the FBI group will show significantly greater improvements in measures of daily living compared to the stretching group. All assessment sessions will be conducted virtually via Zoom. All measures collected during the initial screening, pre-training assessment, training progression, and mid- and post-training assessment sessions will be administered either via Zoom with a Helper Buddy present or through survey links sent to participants via the UIC REDCap system. The training sessions will be performed independently by the participants in the presence of a Helper Buddy. The investigators will recruit 75 people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) for this study. Eligible participants will be randomized to either the FBI (Intervention) or stretching (Control) group, followed by an onboarding session with a designated Helper Buddy. Training will occur twice weekly for four months. Based on the anticipated attrition rate, the investigators aim for 40 PwMS to complete the post-training assessments and finish the study.

Recruiting
Has No Placebo

University of Illinois at Chicago

Image of The University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada.

Nutritional Therapy + Anti-TNFα for Crohn's Disease

9 - 17
All Sexes
Vancouver, Canada

Children with Crohn's disease (CD), a type of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), often face serious health challenges, including poor growth, frequent hospital stays, and long-term medication use. Although biologic drugs like infliximab, an anti-TNFα (Tumor necrosis factor α) medication, have improved treatment, they don't work for everyone: many children still experience symptoms or disease flare-ups. Nutritional therapies, especially the Crohn's Disease Exclusion Diet (CDED), may help improve treatment outcomes. This study will assess whether starting CDED at the same time as infliximab leads to better responses to treatment. The goal of this study is to improve how well children respond to therapy, reduce drug exposure, and support better long-term health.

Waitlist Available
Has No Placebo

The University of British Columbia

Kevan Jacobson, MBBCh, FRCP, FRCPC, AGAF, CAGF

Image of MUHC - Montreal General Hospital in Montreal, Canada.

Ustekinumab for Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis

18+
All Sexes
Montreal, Canada

The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate whether disease remission can be maintained when biologic therapy is reduced in patients with Crohn"s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) taking ustekinumab (UST). The main question it aims to answer is: Can we de-escalate UST subcutaneous dose either from every 4 weeks (Q4) to every 8 weeks (Q8) or every 8 weeks (Q8) to every 12 weeks (Q12) in CD or UC patients in deep remission without loosing their response? Researchers will follow UST blood levels, inflammation markers and intestinal mucosa integrity and to see if UST dose can be reduced while maintaining clinical remission. Participants will: Change UST dosing from Q4 to Q8 or from Q8 to Q12. Visit the clinic once every 12 weeks for checkups and tests.

Phase 4
Recruiting

MUHC - Montreal General Hospital

Janssen Inc.

Have you considered Imuran clinical trials?

We made a collection of clinical trials featuring Imuran, we think they might fit your search criteria.
Go to Trials

Have you considered Imuran clinical trials?

We made a collection of clinical trials featuring Imuran, we think they might fit your search criteria.
Go to Trials
Image of Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, United States.

N-Acetylglucosamine for Crohn's Disease

13 - 80
All Sexes
Baltimore, MD

This study is a clinical trial of oral N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) in patients with Crohn's disease (CD). This study includes two study groups divided by gene variation in a transporter protein that regulates manganese levels. This genetic variant increases the risk of Crohn's disease (especially involving the ileum) and is carried by approximately 10% of individuals with Crohn's disease. This genetic variant lowers manganese levels, and manganese is important in a cellular process called glycosylation, therefore, glycosylation is changed. Glycosylation in the gut controls the barrier function, interactions with the bugs in the gut, and immune function - all important in Crohn's disease. In this study, the investigators will test if this problem with glycosylation can be targeted by giving GlcNAc. GlcNAc is a key ingredient for glycosylation, and it is currently marketed as a dietary supplement in the United States.

Phase 2
Waitlist Available

Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

Joanna Melia, MD

Image of Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Neurology, University at Buffalo in Buffalo, United States.

Mindset Training for MS

18 - 65
All Sexes
Buffalo, NY

People with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) often experience cognitive difficulties such as memory problems, concentration issues, and reduced processing speed. These symptoms can have a negative impact on daily functioning and overall quality of life. Previous research on cognitive rehabilitation has shown that regular training focused on memory and concentration can have positive effects on cognitive functioning, including processing speed, memory, and executive functions that support daily activities. Moreover, fMRI studies (brain scans that measure brain activity) have revealed changes in brain activation following cognitive rehabilitation. Recently, the idea has emerged that a more personalized approach could improve treatment outcomes. Specifically, researchers have identified a link between personality traits and cognitive functioning. Since every individual is different, current cognitive rehabilitation programs often fail to take these personal differences into account. In this project, the investigators aim to enhance the effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation by focusing more closely on individual characteristics through an app-based training program. Participants will complete a 12-week app training prior to a 6-week cognitive rehabilitation program. The first app focuses on mindset training, supported by a coach. Afterwards, all participants will use a second app designed to train processing speed and memory. In addition to cognitive functioning, the investigators will also examine psychological, (neuro)biological, and social changes using questionnaires and fMRI. This research may provide valuable insights into how cognitive functioning and quality of life in people with MS can be improved. This study is funded by the National MS Fund and is a collaboration between several institutions: the Department of Health, Medical and Neuropsychology at Leiden University (The Netherlands), the University at Buffalo (USA), and Reha Rheinfelden (Switzerland).

Recruiting
1 Prior Treatment

Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Neurology, University at Buffalo

Hanneke E Hulst, Prof

Have you considered Imuran clinical trials?

We made a collection of clinical trials featuring Imuran, we think they might fit your search criteria.
Go to Trials