Uses of undefined

Tacrolimus has been developed to prevent organ rejection in adult and pediatric patients receiving an allogeneic transplant of the liver, kidney, heart, or lung.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

Tacrolimus is available in the form of capsules, injections, oral suspensions, and ointments. Tacrolimus Capsule is available in doses 0.5mg, 1mg, and 5mg. your healthcare provider will administer Tacrolimus Injection (5mg/ml) if you are unable to tolerate an oral capsule or suspension. Your healthcare provider will prescribe the accurate dose based on the organ transplanted, body weight, and health condition. Patients diagnosed with cystic fibrosis might require higher doses.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience fever, lightheadedness, or breathing difficulty. During the Tacrolimus treatment, your doctor may periodically monitor your complete blood count, blood pressure, blood sugar, electrolytes and kidney parameters to prevent serious complications. Report to your doctor if you have been diagnosed with blood disorders (pure red cell aplasia), diabetes, hypertension, and heart and kidney problems. Avoid receiving live vaccines during this treatment. 

Precautions

Tacrolimus has the ability to cause fetal harm, so it is advisable to tell your physician if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby. This medicine also has the tendency to increase blood pressure and blood sugar levels in pregnant women. Avoid breastfeeding your baby while you are on the treatment as Tacrolimus can impact the growth and development of the baby by passing into the breast milk. Discuss effective contraceptive options with your healthcare provider before starting this treatment to prevent unwanted pregnancy.

Side Effects

The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Tacrolimus are abnormal kidney function, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, fever, CMV infection, tremor, high blood glucose levels, leukopenia, infection, anemia, bronchitis, pericardial effusion, urinary tract infection, constipation, diarrhea, headache, stomach pain, insomnia, paraesthesia, nausea, high levels of blood cholesterol, potassium and magnesium. If you experience any allergic reactions such as excessive sweating, chest pain, or tremors report them to your doctor immediately.

Word Of Advice

Tacrolimus can make your skin sensitive. Apply sunscreen with a good SPF and wear protective clothing before you step out in the sun. Tell your healthcare provider before starting this treatment if you have been diagnosed with lactose intolerance.

Frequently Asked Question

• Who should not use Tacrolimus?
• People who have experienced hypersensitivity to Tacrolimus and polyoxyl 60 hydrogenated castor oil should not use Tacrolimus.

• Is it safe to use Tacrolimus during pregnancy?
• Tacrolimus can cause fetal harm. So it is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Tell your healthcare provider before starting this treatment if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant.

• What should you not use with Tacrolimus?
• Avoid taking mycophenolic acid-containing products, nelfinavir, sirolimus, cyclosporine, antibiotics and antiviral medications. Inform your healthcare provider regarding any prescription medicines, over-the counter medications, vitamin or herbal supplements you are taking or have taken before the treatment.

• What should you avoid while taking tacrolimus?
• Avoid receiving live attenuated vaccines, grapefruit or grapefruit juice while on treatment with Tacrolimus. Wear protective clothing and use an effective sunscreen to prevent skin damage due to sun exposure.

• Does Tacrolimus cause diabetes?
• Tacrolimus increases the risk of newly onset diabetes mellitus. Always keep your blood sugar levels in check.

• How is Tacrolimus administered?
• Tacrolimus is intended for oral administration in the form of capsule or oral suspension. Your healthcare provider will calculate the accurate dose depending on the type of organ transplant and your body weight. You will be prescribed Tacrolimus injection if you are unable to tolerate oral dose.

• How would you know if your blood sugar levels are high?
• Watch out for symptoms like frequent urination, drowsiness, increased thirst or hunger, blurry vision, confusion, nausea, vomiting, fruity odour from your breath and loss of appetite. These symptoms indicate the possibility of high blood sugar.