azathioprine /az′əthī″ōprēn/ , an immunosuppressive. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed to prevent organ rejection after transplantation and to treat lupus erythematosus and other systemic inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis unresponsive to other agents. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. It is contraindicated in rheumatoid arthritis and in pregnant women. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the most serious adverse reactions are bone marrow depression and hepatotoxicity. Nausea and fever are common.
