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Biologics next when Immunmodulator Azathioprine fails

Akido profile image
10 Replies

I have IBD (Colitis) since 2018 and have been on mesalazine, enema with periodic steroids to manage my flare. Lately I tried Azathioprine for 3 weeks (from 1 dosage to 2) but have elevated liver function test ALT and AST more than 4 times acceptable range last week. Prior aza, it always fall within accceptable range.Other side effects with aza include headache, nausea and poor appetite. Doc asked me to stop it immediately and do a blood test in coming week to ensure the liver heal first b4 next step. Anyone with similar exp and how long it takes for the liver to recover back normal?

Doc also suggested biologics next which is very expensive. I also have option of trying out Azathioprine or 6MP again when my liver heal but he discourages this option. Any tot on the cost of treatment and frequency required for patient with moderate IBD stool test about 550. I am active person with daily exercises

Anyone tried other alternative like 6-MP and feel better with lesser side effects? the uncertainty just makes me crazy....sigh

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Akido
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10 Replies
Graham49 profile image
Graham49

If you search on Mercaptopurine there are a number of previous posts for 6-MP.

Akido profile image
Akido in reply to Graham49

👍👍

SuzyQ67 profile image
SuzyQ67

Both medications have basically the same side effects. Personally, I would move to a biologic. If you have insurance there are patient assistance programs available to help with co-pays. Many people use this & pay nothing for the medication.

Akido profile image
Akido in reply to SuzyQ67

Thanks for sharing much appreciated. r u having biologics alone without azathioprine? It will be useful to share an estimate cost , frequency of dosage n how long it took u go into remission

saj12 profile image
saj12

Whilst I was on azathioprine 125mg dose, my liver function tests also showed elevated reading - I was put onto combination with allopurinol which allowed azathioprine dose reduction to 37.5mg - long story short was on this for about a year - now moved onto biologics - am much better on this new treatment

Akido profile image
Akido in reply to saj12

Thanks ,. r u having biologics alone without azathioprine? It will be useful to share an estimate cost , frequency of dosage n how long it took u go into remission

saj12 profile image
saj12 in reply to Akido

Hi, biologics on their own - I had significant concern over the possible side effects of a Aza/Biologics combo (If I remember my conversations with the nurses - is age related, higher <40).. so I did come of azathioprine then start.160mg loading does (4 injections of Amgevita)... dropping to a dose of 40mg (1 injection/2 weeks). Fecal calpropectin prior starting was >2000. After 4 months, 550, after 11 months, 49 - have now been on for 13months.

Cost wise, thankfully here in the UK, the costs are covered by our health service.

Akido profile image
Akido in reply to saj12

Cool & keep up e positive 👍💪

Eixor57 profile image
Eixor57

Biologics alone. 👍

Akido profile image
Akido in reply to Eixor57

👌👍

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