Azathioprine Monitoring Information

This leaflet provides additional information about the monitoring required while you are taking azathioprine. It should be read alongside the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) patient information leaflet.

What is Azathioprine?

Azathioprine is an immunosuppressive medicine that helps reduce inflammation by calming the immune system. It is used for a range of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions

Why monitoring is important

Azathioprine can occasionally cause changes in blood counts or affect liver and kidney function. Regular blood tests allow us to identify any issues early and adjust your treatment if needed.

How often are tests done?

• Every week until your dose is stable for four weeks
• Then monthly for three months
• Then at least every 12 weeks.

Your doctor may adjust how often tests are needed depending on your results and individual circumstances.

Please ensure you remain up to date with your blood tests and arrange timely appointments with your GP or at South Walks House.

The South Walks House clinic is located next to Dorchester Library. Phlebotomy clinics operate Monday to Friday, from 8am to 4.30pm. To book an appointment at any of the clinics, please call 01305 254822 between 11am and 2pm. An answerphone service is available after 2pm.

Monitoring after dose increases

If your dose is increased at any point, the monitoring schedule resets:

• Weekly tests until the new dose is stable for four weeks
• Then return to the usual schedule.

Other important points

• It may take several weeks before you notice the full benefit of Azathioprine.
• You should report any signs of infection, unusual bruising, or persistent nausea
• Regular  follow up appointments help us ensure the treatment continues to be safe
• Keep up to date with your blood tests and arrange appointments promptly
• Always inform your doctor if you are prescribed new medications, especially allopurinol or febuxostat
• Protect your skin from the sun and check your skin regularly for any new or changing lesions , report any concern to your doctor.

Contact numbers

We hope that you have found this information useful. If you have any questions or are worried about anything, please speak to the following Dorset County Hospital staff:

Dermatology Department 01305 255118 (answer machine, monitored daily) dermatologypractitioners@dchft.nhs.uk

About this leaflet

Authors: Harriet Matthews, Nursing Associate, Dr. Ghadah Al-Sharbatee, Specialty Doctor
Written: February 2026
Approved: May 2026
Review date: May 2029
Edition: v1

If you have feedback regarding the accuracy of the information contained in this leaflet, or if you would like a list of references used to develop this leaflet, please email patientinformation.leaflets@dchft.nhs.uk