Imuran – uses, health risks, and side effects at NaturalPedia.com

Thursday, September 06, 2018 by Zoey Sky

Imuran belongs to a class of drugs called immunosuppressants that alters the activity of the body’s immune system so it doesn’t attack a transplanted organ or joint. The drug, which may be used with other medicines, can help prevent organ rejection after a patient undergoes a kidney transplant.

The drug is also used to treat severe Crohn’s disease, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ulcerative colitis.

Imuran’s generic name is azathioprine, and its other brand names include Azasan.

Known health risks or side effects of Imuran

Imuran may cause common side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.

You may require immediate medical attention if you experience severe side effects such as:

Burning or pain when urinating
Jaundice/yellowing of the skin or eyes
Liver problems – Signs may include appetite loss, clay-colored stools, dark-colored urine, fatigue, itching, nausea, and upper stomach pain.
Severe diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
Signs of infection – May include body aches, chills, fever, flu symptoms, muscle pain, a sore throat, or weakness.
White patches or sores on the lips or inside the mouth

List of organs that might be affected by Imuran

An overdose of Imuran may cause complications like severe diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting and signs of infection.

An overdose of the drug can also cause an allergic reaction. Signs of an allergic reaction may include difficulty breathing; hives; or the swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

If you think you’ve taken too much of this drug, consult a healthcare professional. If your symptoms are severe, go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Food items or nutrients that have similar effects to Imuran

The following foods or nutrients, which are natural immunosuppressants, have similar effects to Imuran:

Folic acid – While folic acid isn’t as effective as vitamin D when it comes to immunosuppression, the former can still help treat rheumatoid arthritis.
Vitamins A, C, and E– Getting enough vitamin A is necessary for a healthy immune system. Vitamins A, C, and E can even help prevent asthma.
Vitamin D – Aside from keeping the bones strong, vitamin D can help regulate the immune system. But unlike vitamins A, C, and E, vitamin D can boost various aspects of your immunity. Vitamin D can help address rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and it can significantly increase the chances of a patient’s body accepting a kidney transplant.

Treatment and management options for the side effects of Imuran

The following treatments and management options can help prevent the side effects associated with Imuran, such as a sore throat:

Chamomile tea – Chamomile tea can help soothe a sore throat. The tea also has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and astringent properties. Chamomile tea can prompt the immune system to help the body deal with the infection that caused a sore throat.
Fenugreek – Fenugreek comes in various forms like seeds, topical oil, or tea. Fenugreek tea can cure sore throats because it can help relieve pain and eliminate bacteria that cause irritation or inflammation. Don’t use fenugreek if you are pregnant.
Honey – Honey, taken on its own or added to tea, can help soothe and treat a sore throat.
Marshmallow root – Marshmallow root has a mucus-like substance that coats and soothes a sore throat. Make marshmallow root tea by adding dried marshmallow root to one cup of boiling water. Drink the tea twice or thrice daily to ease throat pain. If you have diabetes, consult a healthcare professional before consuming marshmallow root, which may cause a drop in blood sugar level.

Where to learn more

Summary

Imuran belongs to a class of drugs called immunosuppressants that alters the activity of the body’s immune system so it doesn’t attack a transplanted organ or joint.

Imuran may cause common side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, a sore throat, or vomiting.

An overdose of Imuran may cause complications like severe diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting and signs of infection. An overdose of the drug can also cause an allergic reaction.

Folic acid, vitamins A, C, D, and E are natural immunosuppressants and they have similar effects to Imuran.

Chamomile tea, fenugreek, honey, and marshmallow root can help prevent the side effects associated with Imuran, such as a sore throat.

Sources include:

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