Has Azathioprine helped?

[rubybelle12]

Has anyone noticed a change in their painful joints after starting Azathioprine, and how long did it take.

[Allydee]

Hi - I've been on it for around 12 weeks now. Before, my knees were extremely sore and I was extremely fatigued. Hydroxy had initially helped but when I had a second flair up in February I felt I had no alternative but to give Azothioprine a go. I've got no regrets - energy levels are better (not amazing, but much better), my knees are not as sore and I've been able to increase exercise/activity - which in turn has improved my mental health too.

[rubybelle12 in reply to Allydee]

You have given me hope about Aazathioprine.. I was diagnosed with Lupus, RA and lung involvement 10 yrs ago . I have been on prednisolone (various doses) and Mycophenlate and Zapain for pain. I have never seen any great improvement only deterioration and weight gain over the years. I started on Azathioprine 3 weeks ago reluctantly because of all the side effects, I have become a bit of a sceptic, however when I read positive stories like yours I think maybe just maybe it might work for me. I usually have varying degrees of generalised pain but two days ago I woke with excruciating pain in my shoulders, upper arms forearms ,wrists hands and fingers which has rendered me useless in daily living activities. Yesterday I could have pulled my hair out with frustation and agony but I can't even lift my arms to comb my hair. In fact the pain is the worst I have ever had and I thought maybe it has to get worse before it gets better. Anyone else got similiar experiences