Azathioprine is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as immunosuppressants. It is commonly used to suppress the immune system in patients with certain autoimmune diseases or to prevent organ rejection after transplant surgeries.
Azathioprine works by selectively inhibiting the activity of white blood cells, which are responsible for the body's immune response. By suppressing immune activity, it can reduce inflammation, prevent damage to tissues, and help manage symptoms in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, inflammatory bowel disease, and others.
It is important to note that azathioprine can have some side effects, including a risk of infection, reduced blood cell counts, liver toxicity, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer. Therefore, it is typically prescribed and monitored by healthcare professionals who consider the risks and benefits for each individual patient.
WHAT IS AZATHIOPRINE
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