Imuran
Imuran (azathioprine) is an immunosuppressive drug that antagonizes purine metabolism and may inhibit synthesis of DNA, RNA, and proteins. It is used to suppress immune response, thereby preventing transplant rejection and reducing inflammation in autoimmune conditions.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage is highly individualized and must be adjusted according to clinical response and hematological tolerance. The typical initial dose for renal homotransplantation is 3 to 5 mg/kg daily. For rheumatoid arthritis, the initial dose is approximately 1.0 mg/kg (50 to 100 mg) given as a single dose or twice daily.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Contraindicated or used with extreme caution under strict pediatric specialist guidance. Highly sensitive to toxicities.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 5 mg to 14 mg daily (calculated at 1-2 mg/kg)
- Frequency
- Once daily or in 2 divided doses
- Tracking Notes
- Requires strict weight-based calculation and genetic testing (TPMT/NUDT15) before initiation.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 8 mg to 20 mg daily (calculated at 1-2 mg/kg)
- Frequency
- Once daily or in 2 divided doses
- Tracking Notes
- Monitor complete blood counts weekly during the first month of therapy.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 11 mg to 30 mg daily (calculated at 1-2 mg/kg)
- Frequency
- Once daily or in 2 divided doses
- Tracking Notes
- Dose may be adjusted upward slowly if tolerated and if therapeutic response is inadequate.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 16 mg to 40 mg daily (calculated at 1-2 mg/kg)
- Frequency
- Once daily or in 2 divided doses
- Tracking Notes
- Monitor liver function tests and blood counts regularly throughout therapy.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Contraindicated or used with extreme caution under strict pediatric specialist guidance. Highly sensitive to toxicities. |
| 5-7 kg | 5 mg to 14 mg daily (calculated at 1-2 mg/kg) | Once daily or in 2 divided doses | Requires strict weight-based calculation and genetic testing (TPMT/NUDT15) before initiation. |
| 8-10 kg | 8 mg to 20 mg daily (calculated at 1-2 mg/kg) | Once daily or in 2 divided doses | Monitor complete blood counts weekly during the first month of therapy. |
| 11-15 kg | 11 mg to 30 mg daily (calculated at 1-2 mg/kg) | Once daily or in 2 divided doses | Dose may be adjusted upward slowly if tolerated and if therapeutic response is inadequate. |
| 16-20 kg | 16 mg to 40 mg daily (calculated at 1-2 mg/kg) | Once daily or in 2 divided doses | Monitor liver function tests and blood counts regularly throughout therapy. |
Formulation
Purpose
Immunosuppressive agent used to prevent organ rejection in kidney transplants and to manage severe active rheumatoid arthritis. It is also used off-label for inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis) and other autoimmune diseases.
Generic Name
AzathioprineScheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.