Imuran is popular in canine medicine for its ability to aid in the treatment of autoimmune conditions. Autoimmune diseases are those in which a malfunction of the body's immune system causes it to act out against the health of your pet. There are a number of diseases and conditions of this type that Imuran can help to treat, including:
- Skin diseases
- Anemia
- Arthritis
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Hepatitis and other liver conditions
- Kidney diseases of various types
Imuran Overview
Imuran is an immunosuppressive drug. Drugs of this type work to slow down the function of the immune system in your pet. While this is typically not a desirable effect, as a healthy immune system works to keep your pet from getting sick, in some cases it can be better to limit the function of this system. Imuran specifically works by interfering with the standard function of lymphocytes, which are cells that help in the production of immune system antibodies and other chemicals.
Imuran is a brand name formulation of the medicine called azathioprine. This medicine was developed for use in humans only, although it can legally be prescribed by vets in certain veterinary cases.
Using Imuran for Your Dog
This medicine is available in tablet form only. In order to properly provide your dog with the medicine, most vets will recommend breaking up the tablets into appropriate sizes and then including them with your pet's food or along with a treat that you give him. The dosage is typically dependent upon your pet's weight and size, as well as the specific condition that you're attempting to treat. You'll need to give your pet Imuran once a day or once every other day. Be sure to follow your vet's instructions for providing this medicine to your dog.
Imuran is frequently combined with other types of drugs as well. This combination, when recommended by a vet, can help to treat the condition that is affecting your pet's immune system at the same time that it works to moderate the symptoms of that condition. Most frequently, Imuran is given along with a corticosteroid treatment.
Risks and Side Effects of Imuran
As with other immunosuppressive drugs, Imuran can leave your pet more exposed to other types of diseases. Therefore, it's important that you continue to feed him a balanced, nutritious diet and that he has plenty of water.
The most common side effects of Imuran include the following:
- Sedation
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
About 1 in 10 dogs will suffer a sensitive reaction to this drug, and may experience more complicated side effects. This is due to the lack of a certain enzyme that will help to process the medicine. Because of this risk, it's important that you report any side effects to your vet as quickly as possible, and also that you have your pet regularly tested for red blood cell levels while he is taking Imuran or other medicines of this type.