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Imuran/Azathioprine effectiveness

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Ulcerative Colitis
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Posted 5/13/2015 2:07 PM (GMT 0)
What are the markers of Imuran/Azathioprine effectiveness declining? Specifically, what am I looking for in my monthly blood test results to show that it is becoming less effective. I am currently still in a flare, which I have been on imuran the whole time. My GI has given me cortenemas and Mezavant but I am just doing the cortenemas nightly for now, and if need be, add the mezavant later. If the imuran isn't even doing it's job I would like to just be on the mezavant eventually, and take the enemas as needed. I've been on Imuran for around 5 years now.
Posted 5/13/2015 4:01 PM (GMT 0)
The only way to really know is to cut it out, but its a tough decision to rock the boat like that. There are tests to check the concentration of it in your blood and you can see how effectively it is inhibiting lymphocyte proliferation from CBCs but beyond that its just how you feel.
Posted 5/13/2015 4:15 PM (GMT 0)
Not sure there is a way. You can get a Prometheus labs blood test to see if you're still in therapeutic range, and if you are with symptoms you need a stronger medication like remicade (but then again, your symptoms already prove this). The medication is still working, just not strong enough to keep up with your uc disease progression...
Posted 5/13/2015 4:53 PM (GMT 0)
I'd say that if you don't think the Imuran has helped in five years then you are probably right. I believe there is a difference between whether it is at therpeutic levels in your blood and whether or not it is actually working. In other words, I believe that it can be at therepeutic levels in your blood and not be working at all.
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