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Is it best to get off Azathioprine?

Thu, August 01, 2024 12:29 PM

I am about to have a follow up with my doctor about the possibility of getting off my azathioprine treatment. I have been on azathioprine and Humira since my diagnosis a little over a year ago. The treatment seems to be working well and I am very close to remission. However, when I was first put on azathioprine, my doctor at the time (I have since switched doctors due to moving) recommended that I not stay on it for longer than a year due to risk of lymphoma.

So, my current doctor has proposed a few different options. He has said that I could theoretically continue on the same treatment plan, taking azathioprine indefinitely, even with a small family history of lymphoma, or switch to a different medication that wouldn't require the use of azathioprine.

I don't know what to do. Since my treatment is working I am hesitant to change anything. I also don't see the need to get off azathioprine if my cancer risk is still low on it. Has anyone had experience with azathioprine, including either switching off of it or remaining on it? What are your thoughts?

anniemkc
Joined Aug 1, 2024

Sun, January 19, 2025 9:57 AM

Reply posted for anniemkc.

I was on azathioprine for about 15-16 years. The medication I took along with it to control my arthritis stopped working. My doctors decided on Humira to control my UC and arthritis. For six months I had to stay on my azathioprine while on the Humira. Unfortunately, once I stopped the azathioprine I developed psoriasis from the Humira and had to stop it as well. Azathioprine always worked for me and I never had any trouble with it. Since I stopped it, I have been medication hopping. Only you and your doctor can decide what is best for you. Be your own advocate and I hope you have a doctor that you trust.

clb
Joined Apr 16, 2009

Tue, August 06, 2024 12:19 AM

Reply posted for anniemkc.

It's great to hear you're close to remission! If your current treatment is working well and your risk remains low, staying on azathioprine might be a solid choice. Discuss your concerns with your doctor about the risk vs. benefit and the potential of switching. Each person's situation is unique.

Benjamin McLean
Joined Jul 8, 2024

Fri, August 02, 2024 3:40 PM

Reply posted for anniemkc.

Thank you for your post. While we can't provide medical advice in this specific space, and patients may experience treatments differently, you raise very important questions as you make decisions about your treatment plan.

It sounds like you may have raised those questions with your doctor already, and it may be worth revisiting the topic with your doctor, and ask:

What is the relative risk of staying on this treatment? What exactly does that risk mean for me?

Would the effectiveness change if I switched, and then needed to take it again?

Do the benefits of the other options out weigh the risks of staying on my treatment?

Talking through this can help you come to a decision you feel most comfortable with and one guided by your doctor.

To view information about IBD medications, you may be interested in reviewing the following resources:

IBD Medication | Crohn's & Colitis Foundation (crohnscolitisfoundation.org)

Partnering with Your Doctor | Crohn's & Colitis Foundation (crohnscolitisfoundation.org)

administrator
Joined Oct 12, 2017

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