How safe is crohn's medication (azothioprine)?

Very safe: Azathioprine a very useful drug in crohn's disease. It is an anti-inflammatory which is steroid sparing. Many patients with cd who are initially given steroids should be converted to azathioprine/6mp therapy for long-term use. Monitoring of blood counts and general examinations to monitor and screen for cancer are necessary. It is questionable azathioprine/6mp increase the risk for cancer.