Azathioprine discussion

[Sailorsong]

Hi All,

   I had written to Quix about my new meds and she asked that I post it on the forum to open up a discussion about the one drug (Azathioprine).

   I was Rx'ed this drug as well as Prednisone to treat Sjogrin's syndrome that is attacking my spinal cord. This drug is also used for the treatment of MS as a lower cost treatment (though more dangerous) instead of DMDs.

  Below is the text of my message to Quix which she has answered except for the Vaccine question.

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I got the new meds my Neuro Rx'ed today and have a few question that you may be able to answer. The meds are listed below.

1) Prednisone 20MG 1x every day as needed.
2) Azathioprine 50MG 1x for 1 wk, 2x for 1 wk, then 3x thereafter.

As for the Prednisone it states as needed. What should I be looking for to determine if I need it? I'm not sure of what this brug should be doning.

I do plan on calling the VA on Monday to ask about the base line blood work prior to starting the Azathioprine. What tests should I be asking about?

Also since the Azathioprine is a immunospression drug should I be getting flu vacines? Or any other kind for that matter?
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Azathioprin (brand name Imuran) is primarily used for kidney transplant patients and severe Rheumatoid arthritis.

Primary risks of taking this long term are increased risk of certain types of cancer (skin, lymphoma), problems with liver, blood disorders, and ability to fight infections as this is an immunosuppressant drug.

Dennis

[PastorDan]

I dropped lisinopril for entirely unrelated side effects -- that nasty dry cough / throat tickle thing that woke me up every night.

[Sailorsong]

Just an quick update as to what I wrote to you.

After spending most of the day on the phone with the VA and Vanderbilt about the drug interaction indication for the Avathioprine and my lisinopril. Turns out that the interaction can cause annemia so the Neuro want my PCP to change my BP med if possible. I am also suppose to hold off on taking the Avathioprine until this is resolved.

Dennis

[PastorDan]

Sorry, Dennis, but I don't know a thing about this one.  Best wishes with it.