N17 Azathioprine - Is it really a dirty drug? IBD nurse's experience at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital

Abstract Background Azathioprine is commonly used in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) either as monotherapy or combination with anti-TNF agents. has numerous side-effects (SA) including leukopenia, pancreatitis and drug-induced liver injury (DILI). At our centre, dedicated IBD nurses play a central role educating patients regarding potential SA importance blood test monitoring. Suboptimal compliance regard to monitoring significant issue, particularly given that some SE are likely be asymptomatic, only apparent on tests; eg. neutropenia, DILI. Our aim was capture real world data true burden experienced by taking azathioprine. Methods We conducted single-centre study within gastroenterology unit served two full-time specialist nurses. serves over 1000 patients. Currently approximately 22% patient cohort azathiopriine. A prospectively maintained excel database initiated 2014 order Data recorded each time secondary The nature recorded. Of note, checking TPMT levels prior initiation azathioprine standard practice centre. Results During eight year period (2014-2022), 91 were having most common (n=43%) general intolerance drug which included short periods nausea flu-like symptoms; followed muscle/joint pain (n=17%); (n=14%); abnormal lfts (n=12%); hair loss (n=10%); low wcc (n=4%). Conclusion collected real-world shows from amongst This emphasises counselling this drug. Whilst leukopenia particular concern services who prescribe azathioprine, show accounts for very small percentage experience while