Comparing Azathioprine vs Mercaptopurine

For Ulcerative Colitis This medicine seemed to work at first, the negatives ultimately were worse than the positives. It did put me down to about 4 bowel motions a day but it was at the cost of horrendous acne, terrible headaches, joint pain and fatigue. Doctor still has me on it for another autoimmune disease but keeps me at a minimum.

For Ulcerative Colitis Have had UC since 1991 and been on Prednisolone and Asacol which became ineffective. Severe attack October 2016 - spent 10 days in hospital. IV steroids and then sent home on reducing steroids - symptoms began to return. Azathioprine prescribed. Certainly helped reduce and eventually stop UC bleeding. Trips to the toilet reduced to around 3 or 4 occasions . Initially caused liver function problems which improved. However the drug has shattered my immune system - have taken any cold, cough or flu that crops up. Makes me fatigued after around 40 minutes exertion. Cannot now play golf, take hill walks or do heavy garden work etc. I guess it is good for some patients and not so good for others. Seeing consultant soon and will discuss options.

For Crohn's Disease, Maintenance I've been on this medicine for 2 months. I feel, most days like I've been in a car accident. The pain is very difficult to handle. I ache like I have the flu. Thinking about not taking good it and take my chances. What could be worse?

For Crohn's Disease, Maintenance I've been using this drug for just over a month and everything seems like it's going down hill. This drug will make me extremely tired but also keep me awake. It's too inconsistent for my body. It should be helping with bodily functions and minimize pain but it does quite the opposite. Some days my body can't move very fast because of the pain. And if it's not the pain it's fatigue all day. I've had the same problem with other drugs like this. There has to be a way to help without all of the drugs or surgeries.