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Compare Imuran vs. Rapamune

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Azathioprine (Imuran) and sirolimus (Rapamune) are both immunosuppressants used to prevent kidney transplant rejection, but they have some key differences. Azathioprine is also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, while sirolimus is used for a condition called lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM). Azathioprine can be taken orally or via IV, whereas sirolimus is only available in oral form, including tablets and an oral solution. Azathioprine requires regular blood tests to monitor for side effects like liver damage and low blood cell counts, while sirolimus also needs blood level monitoring due to risks like high cholesterol and kidney damage. Both medications can increase the risk of infections and certain cancers, but sirolimus is not recommended for liver and lung transplants due to higher risks of serious complications. Additionally, sirolimus can affect fertility and is not suitable for children under 13, while azathioprine is noted for its potential to cause birth defects, requiring contraception for both men and women. Both medications are available in generic forms, making them more affordable.

  • Imuran (azathioprine)
    Sirolimus (Rapamune)
  • Imuran (azathioprine)
    Sirolimus (Rapamune)

  • Summary of Imuran vs. Rapamune

    Summary for Immunosuppressant
    Prescription only

    Imuran (azathioprine) is a medication used after kidney transplantation and also for rheumatoid arthritis. It's not a first choice medication because of many side effects. Your provider may also use Imuran (azathioprine) for other indications as well, although these are off-label (not FDA-approved) uses.

    Summary for Immunosuppressant
    Prescription only

    Sirolimus (Rapamune) lowers the activity of your immune system to prevent rejection after a kidney transplant. It can also help with a condition that affects your lymphatic system, which is related to your immune system. Your provider will check the levels of sirolimus (Rapamune) in your blood, and this will help guide the dosing. Sirolimus (Rapamune) is available as tablets and as an oral solution, and it's usually only taken once a day. Common side effects include changes in your lab values (e.g., more cholesterol and fat in the blood, change in kidney labs), which is another reason to get your blood checked regularly while taking this medication.

  • Indications of Imuran vs. Rapamune

    Indications for
    •To prevent the body from rejecting a transplanted kidney
    •Rheumatoid arthritis
    Indications for
    •Prevention of kidney transplant rejection
    •Treatment of lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM)

  • Pros and Cons of Imuran vs. Rapamune

    Pros and Const for Immunosuppressant
    Pros
    •Works well for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, although it's not commonly used unless other medications don't work
    •Lowers the pain, stiffness, and swelling caused by rheumatoid arthritis
    •Available in a generic form which is more affordable
    •Can be used in people who have had a kidney transplant and are planning to become pregnant
    Cons
    •Regular blood tests are required
    •Raises risk of getting an infection
    •Not a first choice medication because of many side effects
    Pros and Const for Immunosuppressant
    Pros
    •Taken once a day
    •Can be taken with or without food
    •Comes as an oral solution for people who have a hard time swallowing pills
    •Available as a generic medication, which can be less expensive
    Cons
    •Not meant for children age 12 and younger
    •Not a good option during pregnancy
    •Can cause fertility problems
    •Must be used with other immunosuppressants

  • Common Side Effects of Imuran vs. Rapamune

    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Leukopenia (lowering of white blood cells in the body)
    •Infections
    Common Side Effects for
    •Swelling in arms and legs (up to 58%)
    •More cholesterol and fat in the blood (up to 57%)
    •High blood pressure (up to 49%)
    •Change in kidney labs (up to 40%)
    •Constipation (up to 36%)
    •Headache (up to 34%)
    •Pain (up to 33%)
    •Stomach pain (up to 29%)
    •Urinary tract infection (up to 26%)

  • Warnings of Imuran vs. Rapamune

    Common Side Effects for
    •Cancer
    •Fewer Blood Cells
    •Greater Risk for Infections
    •Liver Damage
    Common Side Effects for
    •Risk for cancer
    •Serious infections
    •Not recommended for liver and lung transplants
    •Slower wound healing
    •High lipids (cholesterol and triglycerides)
    •Serious medication interactions
    •Kidney damage
    •Harm to unborn babies and lower sperm count
    •Vaccines

  • Prices with our coupons for Imuran vs. Rapamune

    Learn more about Imuran
    Learn more about Sirolimus

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