Azathioprine and Mercaptopurine

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Azathioprine and mercaptopurine belong to the group of drugs called immunosuppressants. The immune system is important for fighting infections, but sometimes immune cells attack the body’s own tissues and trigger chronic inflammation (like that found in IBD). Azathioprine and mercaptopurine reduce inflammation by damping down over-activity of the cells of the immune system.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO WORK?

Azathioprine and mercaptopurine are slow-acting. It may take three to six months before you notice benefits. This means some people will need to be treated with other immunosuppressants, such as steroids, until azathioprine or mercaptopurine have started working.

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