Gocovri is the brand name for the medication azathioprine.
If you’re looking for the generic version, it’s simply called azathioprine and is available in the same tablet strengths that Gocovri offers (typically 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, and sometimes 300 mg).
How the generic compares to Gocovri
| Feature |
Gocovri (brand) |
Generic Azathioprine |
| Active ingredient |
Azathioprine |
Azathioprine |
| Dosage strengths |
50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg (tablet) |
Same strengths |
| Formulation |
Immediate‑release tablet (no special excipients) |
Immediate‑release tablet |
| Cost |
Usually higher (brand pricing) |
Typically lower, as it’s off‑label |
| Availability |
Prescription only, available at most pharmacies |
Prescription only, widely available |
| Bioequivalence |
FDA‑approved to be bioequivalent to generic |
By definition, must meet FDA bioequivalence standards |
| Excipient differences |
May use proprietary fillers/polymers |
May use different excipients; not clinically significant for most patients |
Bottom line: The generic has the same therapeutic effect and safety profile as the brand. The only real difference is price and, in some cases, the small set of inactive ingredients (excipients) that can differ between manufacturers.
Typical uses
- Organ transplantation (kidney, heart, etc.) to prevent rejection
- Autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
- Other immunosuppressive protocols (e.g., certain dermatologic conditions)
Common dosing (always follow your provider’s instructions)
- Transplant patients: Usually 2–3 mg/kg/day, split into two doses.
- Autoimmune conditions: Often 1–2 mg/kg/day, adjusted based on response and blood counts.
- Children: Dosed per body weight, typically 2–3 mg/kg/day.
Dose adjustments are made based on complete blood counts (CBC), liver function tests, and clinical response.
Key points on safety and monitoring
| Area |
What to watch for |
Why it matters |
| Blood counts |
Regular CBC (neutrophils, lymphocytes, platelets) |
Azathioprine can cause myelosuppression (low blood cell counts). |
| Liver enzymes |
ALT, AST, bilirubin |
Hepatotoxicity is a potential side effect. |
| Kidney function |
BUN, creatinine |
Azathioprine is renally excreted; impaired kidneys require dose adjustment. |
| Infections |
Signs of infection (fever, sore throat, urinary symptoms) |
The drug suppresses the immune system, increasing infection risk. |
| Pregnancy & lactation |
Counsel patients of reproductive plans |
Azathioprine is pregnancy category D; avoid pregnancy during therapy; breast‑feeding generally not recommended. |
| Allergies |
Rash, itching, swelling |
Hypersensitivity reactions are uncommon but serious. |
Common side effects
- Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain (often transient, especially when starting therapy).
- Diarrhea or constipation.
- Headache, dizziness.
- Rash or mild itching.
- Rare: fever, severe rash, or signs of infection.
If you experience persistent or severe symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
Interactions to note
| Medication |
Potential interaction |
What to do |
| Azathioprine |
Inhibits purine synthesis → interacts with 6‑mercaptopurine, 6‑azauracil |
Avoid other purine analogues unless medically indicated; monitor carefully. |
| Methotrexate |
Both reduce bone marrow activity |
Consider dose adjustment or alternative therapy. |
| Cyclosporine |
Additive immunosuppression, possible nephrotoxicity |
Monitor kidney function; dose adjustment may be needed. |
| Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) |
Increased GI bleeding risk |
Use with caution, consider gastroprotection. |
| Vaccines (live) |
Reduced vaccine efficacy or risk of vaccine‑related disease |
Delay live vaccines; use inactivated vaccines if needed. |
Always provide a full medication list to your prescriber.
How to get the generic
- Ask your prescriber: They can prescribe azathioprine directly.
- Check your pharmacy: Most community and hospital pharmacies stock generic azathioprine tablets.
- Insurance coverage: Generic azathioprine is usually covered under most plans, often with a lower copay.
- Cost‑saving tips:
- Ask if a mail‑order or specialty pharmacy service offers discounts.
- If you have a medication savings card or discount program, use it.
Final tips
- Never switch between brand and generic without consulting your healthcare provider.
- Adhere to scheduled lab monitoring – it’s essential for safety.
- Report any new symptoms: especially fevers, unusual infections, or changes in blood counts.
- Keep a medication diary: note dose timing, side effects, and any dietary changes that might affect absorption.
Got more questions?
Feel free to ask about dosing, specific side‑effect concerns, or how azathioprine fits into your overall treatment plan. Always double‑check with your prescribing clinician or pharmacist before making changes to your regimen.