IMURAN

Hi!
I am 26 year old, and last year (2004) I ve got ulcerative colitis. So far I was taking corticosteroids (and I still do) but my doctor reccomends that I start taking Imuran, because corticosteroids doesn t work any more. My problem is that my girlfriend and I are seriously considering to get married, and have children, but I heared that this medicine (IMURAN) can harmed a new born baby. Is it true? What shuld I do?
Thank you in advance. If possible, can you e mail me a response.
Janko

[HCA]

Go to www.transweb.org enter imuran in searh box and click on article on Imuran during pregnancy.

[cuteus]

there is a gastroenterologist answering questions for a fee in that section of Med Help, there are no physicians at this board as stated in the header, it is a patient to patient support group.

[annainitaly]

hi n.,
sorry about your problems. I used corticosteroids last year, associated with imuran, for autoimmune liver problems. imuran is often used together with steroids because it allows to reduce the  dosage of steroids. but imuran is a dangerous med itself, and if you take it you need to check your blood values very often in the first months (here it is recommended every two weeks).  sure I wouldn't want to get pregnant while taking imuran. don't know about its effects on men's fertility and if it is dangerous for men patient's children. parenthood is such an important thing, don't risk to endanger it: check carefully with your doctor, before. maybe you won't have to assume imuran for a very long time, and even if it's for a year or two... I would wait if I were in your shoes.
may you achieve good health, and fulfillment with your family wishes.
a.