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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Does anyone here take Imuran? My doctor informed me that he will no longer prescribe Cellcept and wants me to take Imuran instead.

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Tyrone, PA

I thought it was a cancer drug and had bad side effects.

May 23
 · 
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Answer Summary

Members rallied around a question about switching from CellCept to Imuran, with several sharing that Imuran is an autoimmune medication, not a... Read more

Members rallied around a question about switching from CellCept to Imuran, with several sharing that Imuran is an autoimmune medication, not a cancer drug, and that its side effects are similar to CellCept, though CellCept has a stronger track record for lupus-related organ diseases. One knowledgeable member confirmed that Imuran does not interact with Jardiance and suggested asking the doctor to appeal to insurance if a medication is working well. A recurring theme was that the switch appeared to be cost-driven, and members encouraged the person to advocate for themselves since the final treatment choice belongs to the patient.

A MyLupusTeam Member

I find that interesting since Cellcept costs considerably more than Imuran. My old rheumatologist switched me from Imuran to Cellcept because it was a new drug at the time for lupus and nephritis he thought was a better fit for me. I am still taking the generic form of Cellcept and it's helping keep my kidneys stable along with Benlysta. For your reference, I have included a comparison chart from www.drugs.com

CellCept vs Imuran Comparison - Drugs.com https://www.drugs.com/compare/cellcept-vs-imuran

https://www.drugs.com/compare/cellcept-vs-imuran
https://www.drugs.com/compare/cellcept-vs-imuran
https://www.drugs.com
https://www.drugs.com
May 25
A MyLupusTeam Member

Sharon, Imuran does NOT interact with Jardiance, which I verified through my drug interaction program. However, you should double-check on interactions with your doctor and/or pharmacist about new meds, too.

Imuran is not used for cancer treatment, but is used for a wide variety of autoimmune diseases. AI is incorrect, and I verified it. Its side effects are similar to those of Cellcept, but Cellcept has a much better proven track record for treating lupus nephritis, lung disease, and other organ diseases from lupus. May I ask why they are switching it?

May 24
A MyLupusTeam Member

Is this azathioprine?

May 24
MyLupusTeam

It's completely understandable to have concerns about switching medications! Azathioprine (Imuran) is indeed used in cancer treatment, but it's also a well-established immunosuppressant prescribed for lupus — so you're not alone in that confusion.

Like CellCept, Imuran works by suppressing the immune system to help manage Show Full Answer

It's completely understandable to have concerns about switching medications! Azathioprine (Imuran) is indeed used in cancer treatment, but it's also a well-established immunosuppressant prescribed for lupus — so you're not alone in that confusion.

Like CellCept, Imuran works by suppressing the immune system to help manage lupus symptoms and prevent flares. Some known side effects of Imuran include:

- Unintended weight loss
- Nausea or stomach upset
- Increased risk of infections
- Potential increased risk of certain cancers with long-term use

One MyLupusTeam member shared that after being on Imuran, they lost over 80 pounds of weight that had been gained from prednisone — so responses really do vary from person to person. The most important step is to have an open conversation with your doctor about your concerns. Ask specifically why the switch is being made and what monitoring will be in place. That way you can feel more confident going into the change. 💙

May 23
A MyLupusTeam Member

Sorry, I thought it was the other way around. Please remember that it's your choice too.

May 25

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