Azathioprine and allopurinol: a potentially dangerous combination

J Intern Med. 1990 Jul;228(1):69-71. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2796.1990.tb00195.x.

Abstract

We report the association of leucopenia and anaemia in five patients given a combination of azathioprine and allopurinol. Three subjects were renal transplant recipients with mild to moderate impairment of graft function. The complication appeared between 4 and 6 weeks following initiation of the combination therapy. Discontinuation of one of the two drugs resulted in full recovery within 4-8 weeks.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Allopurinol / adverse effects*
  • Azathioprine / adverse effects*
  • Bone Marrow Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Drug Interactions
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Kidney Transplantation*
  • Leukocyte Count / drug effects
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Platelet Count / drug effects

Substances

  • Allopurinol
  • Azathioprine