Azathioprine

( Imuran )

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Dec 16, 2022

Common Questions


Common Questions about Azathioprine


Is azathioprine a steroid?

No, azathioprine is not a steroid. It is an immunosuppressant drug.



How long do you stay on azathioprine?

Your doctor will decide how long you should stay on azathioprine. You may need to take this medication for life to suppress your immune system and prevent transplant rejection.



How do you know if azathioprine is working?

If you are taking azathioprine to treat rheumatoid arthritis, it can take up to 12 weeks for you to get the benefits of this medicine and notice an improvement in your symptoms. If you are taking azathioprine to prevent rejection after a kidney transplant, you should continue taking the medicine even if you feel well. Azathioprine will prevent organ rejection only as long as you take it. You may not be able to tell if the medicine is working. Your doctor will perform tests to check for transplant rejection.



Why is azathioprine taken at night?

Azathioprine can cause stomach upset, nausea, and vomiting. Taking this medication at night or after meals can help to reduce these side effects.



Can I drink alcohol while taking azathioprine?

It is best to avoid drinking alcohol while on azathioprine because of an increased risk of liver damage.



What is the price of azathioprine without insurance?

Without insurance, azathioprine can be as high as $157.74, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $21.59 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of azathioprine with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on azathioprine—copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for azathioprine. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.