.
Azathioprine is used to prevent organ rejection following kidney transplant and to treat severe cases of rheumatoid arthritis.
Interaction with Herbs
Folic acid
People receiving dialysis for kidney failure often have low blood levels of folic acid.
However, folic acid blood levels should return to normal following kidney transplant. A
preliminary study of people taking azathioprine to prevent organ rejection revealed that blood
levels of folic acid remained well below those of individuals not taking the drug. The highest
blood folic acid level was observed in an individual who had not taken azathioprine for two
years.1 Controlled studies are needed to determine whether people taking
azathioprine should supplement with folic acid.
Summary of Interactions for Azathioprine
| Depletion or interference | Folic acid |
|---|---|
| Adverse interaction | None known |
| Side effect reduction/prevention | None known |
| Supportive interaction | None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability | None known |
For the convenience of the reader, the information in the summary is categorized as follows: “Depletion or interference” indicates the drug may deplete or interfere with the absorption or function of the supplement or herb. “Adverse interaction” indicates that the supplement or herb used together with the drug may result in undesirable effects. “Side effect reduction/prevention” indicates the supplement or herb may reduce the likelihood and/or severity of a potential side effect caused by the drug. “Supportive interaction” indicates the supplement or herb may support or aid the function of the drug. “Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability” indicates that the supplement or herb may decrease the absorption and/or activity of the drug in the body. An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
References:
1. Zazgornik J, Druml W, Balcke P, et al. Diminished serum folic acid levels in renal transplant recipients. Clin Nephrol 1982;18:306–10.
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