Azathioprine (Imuran) and pregnancy

Sister chromatid exchanges in children treated with azathioprine and cyclophosphamide, and effect of protein-bound polysaccharide (PS-K)

“…AZA is also known to induce chromosome aberrations (Zeuthen and Friedrich, 1971;Ganner et al, 1973). Furthermore, possible teratogenicity of CYC and AZA have been reported (Chaube and Murphy, 1968;Cahen, 1966;Rosenkrantz et al, 1967;Tallent et al, 1970;Greenberg and Tanaka, 1964).…”

Approach to the Management of the Pregnant Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patient: Successful Outcome

“…The dose given is equivalent of 4-13 times the maximum human therapeutic dose of AZA.There was no discussion regarding its effect on the immune system development, which is important for future immunity. The safety of azathioprine in pregnancy comes from studies in transplantation and rheumatology patients (Rosenkrantz et al, 1967.;Gaudier, et al 1988). The foetus is protected from potential teratogenic effects of azathioprine and 6-MP due to the lack in foetal liver of the enzyme inosinate phosphorylase which is necessary to convert azathioprine and 6-MP to active metabolites.…”

Treatment of inflammatory bowel disease and pregnancy: a review of the literature

“…There is no evidence so far of adverse effects of azathioprine (AZA) when the adequate doses (50) . Despite apparent certainty as to the use is not recommended the initiation of therapy during pregnancy for its potential myelotoxicity, but for those who already are in therapy to maintain the suspension is not necessary.…”