Imuran (azathioprine) is an immunosuppressant drug used to depress the immune system for dogs suffering from autoimmune disorders, such as colitis, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic hepatitis and systemic lupus erythematosus, associated with overactivity of the immune system.
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Gastrointestinal Effects
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Common side effects of Imuran are decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Imuran is broken down in the liver and, according to veterinarian Wendy Brooks, educational director of VeterinaryPartner.com, may cause a toxic reaction that damages the liver.
Anemia
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Imuran can suppress production of blood cells in the bone marrow. Veterinarian Mark G. Papich in "Saunders Handbook of Veterinary Drugs" states that a decrease in red blood cells can cause anemia, leading to pale gums, lethargy, weakness and shortness of breath.
Bleeding
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Imuran can also suppress production of platelets, which are necessary for blood clotting, leading to excessive bleeding that can cause the animal to vomit blood, pass blood in the urine or stool, and/or develop bruising.
Infection
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Imuran is often given with corticosteroids, such as prednisone, and both drugs can suppress white blood cells, the part of the immune system that fights infection, putting the animal at increased risk for infections, including inflammation of the pancreas.
Precautions
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Animals should have a complete blood count and liver tests done after two weeks of treatment and periodically thereafter to detect signs of adverse effects.
Warning
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Brooks notes that Imuran should not be used with pregnant animals, as it can cause birth defects.
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