Need an Imuran prescription? Imuran is the brand name for azathioprine, a medicine doctors use to calm immune reactions. It’s commonly prescribed for autoimmune conditions (like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis) and to help prevent organ transplant rejection. This short guide explains how prescriptions work, what tests you’ll need, common risks, and practical tips so you and your clinician can make safe choices.
You can only get Imuran on a prescription from a GP or specialist. Before you start, expect a baseline check: blood counts (CBC), liver tests (LFTs) and often a TPMT test (thiopurine methyltransferase). TPMT tells your doctor how you’ll metabolise azathioprine — if your TPMT is low, your dose will be reduced or the drug avoided.
Typical adult dose ranges from about 1–3 mg/kg daily, but your doctor will pick a specific starting dose. After starting, common monitoring plans are blood tests every 1–2 weeks for the first month or two, then monthly for a few months, then every 2–3 months if stable. Stick to the test schedule — the main risks (low white cells or liver problems) are picked up by blood work.
Common side effects include nausea, tiredness, minor liver enzyme rises, and headache. Serious issues to watch for are low white blood cell counts (which raise infection risk), liver injury, and rarely pancreatitis. Long-term use slightly increases the risk of some cancers like skin cancer and lymphoma, so protect your skin from sun and report new lumps or persistent sores.
Key drug interaction: allopurinol (for gout) increases azathioprine’s toxicity. If you take allopurinol, your doctor will usually cut the azathioprine dose down significantly. Always tell your prescriber about all medicines, supplements and herbal products you use.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: azathioprine is used in pregnancy in some cases, but decisions are individual. Don’t make changes without talking to your specialist.
Practical checklist before your appointment:
Filling the prescription: any UK pharmacy can usually dispense azathioprine. If you consider an online pharmacy, only use a regulated service that requires a valid prescription. Never stop Imuran suddenly without medical advice — stopping may let your underlying disease flare.
If you have questions about dosing, side effects, or monitoring, raise them with the clinician who prescribes it. Clear communication and regular blood tests are the best ways to use Imuran safely and get the benefits with lower risk.
Thinking about ordering Imuran online? Learn how to do it safely, which pharmacies to trust, what prescription rules apply, and the pros and cons of digital orders.