Azathioprine

Indications & Dose:

Severe active rheumatoid arthritis unresponsive to other therapy.

Rheumatoid arthritis:

ADULT: Initially 1mg/kg as a single dose; if required increase after 6-8 weeks by 0.5mg/kg/day at 4-week intervals upto a max. of 2.5mg/kg/day. Maintenance: Lowest effective dose.

Children   Same as adults

Contraindications:

Biliary stasis; toxic hepatitis.Recent chicken pox, hypersensitivity.

Pregnancy & breast-feeding: Not recommended.

Side Effects:

Skin rash, bone marrow depression, GI disturbances, hepatotoxicity

Cautions:

Precautions:

Impairment of hepatic or renal function. Monitor blood counts, to watch for infection and toxic effects. Avoid exposure to sunlight.
Old age: Use with caution. 

Interaction:

Drugs
Allopurinol, cytostatics, muscle relaxants

Warnings:

Adverse Effects:

Lactations:

Special Precautions:

Counselling:

Side Effects Or Adverse Reactions:

Patient And Carer Advice: