Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory, multisystem, autoimmune disorder. It is a disabling and painful condition which can lead to substantial loss of mobility due to pain and joint destruction. The disease is also systemic in that it often also affects many extra-articular tissues throughout the body including the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, and...
hi everyone,
My wonderful rheumy has just suggested I try taking Azathioprine (brand name Imuran) instead of methotrexate. I've been on the MTX for three years, along with Plaquenil and a variety of biologics, the most recent being Orenica. I had to get some labs done before I can start the Azathioprine, so I haven't filled the prescription yet. My doctor said the side effects are generally less than with MTX, but the general mechanism is the same- it tamps down the immune system. That makes sense, because it's used for people who have had a transplant and need to keep themselves from rejecting the new organ. My doc's reason for switching me was that while I'm having a tiny bit of improvement on Orencia, I'm still swollen and hot. She described my joints as "smoldering", and said that the new drug can help "melt" some of the inflammation away so the Orencia can get in there and do a better job. Anyway, is anyone else taking this drug? I'd love to hear about your experiences.
thanks!
Caren
My wonderful rheumy has just suggested I try taking Azathioprine (brand name Imuran) instead of methotrexate. I've been on the MTX for three years, along with Plaquenil and a variety of biologics, the most recent being Orenica. I had to get some labs done before I can start the Azathioprine, so I haven't filled the prescription yet. My doctor said the side effects are generally less than with MTX, but the general mechanism is the same- it tamps down the immune system. That makes sense, because it's used for people who have had a transplant and need to keep themselves from rejecting the new organ. My doc's reason for switching me was that while I'm having a tiny bit of improvement on Orencia, I'm still swollen and hot. She described my joints as "smoldering", and said that the new drug can help "melt" some of the inflammation away so the Orencia can get in there and do a better job. Anyway, is anyone else taking this drug? I'd love to hear about your experiences.
thanks!
Caren
Hi! I've tried Imuran but it made me sick but most of the first line DMARD's gave me bad side effects. I get Remicade infusions. They upped my dose Monday and I can already notice a difference...I'm just hoping it will last!
I've read a lot about it being used for human autoimmune conditions, but hadn't heard of many taking it.
You are right, it may just be the ticket for you!
I don know that it can cause spontaneous abortion in individuals who even touch it, etc (supposedly) . . . . so we used to have to wear gloves to count out pills and sent clients home with gloves to wear when dosing it in their pets. The only reason I bring this up is because I wanted you to know, don't let others get this med out for you. I know I've been guilty of having hubby grab my meds for me on a rare occasion.
Drugs.com should have a good write up on it with all of the precautions, etc.
I hope that it works for you!