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

• Severe infection: Do not use during active infection; monitor patients closely for signs of infection during treatment.
• Skin conditions: Avoid applying on open wounds or broken skin to reduce the risk of adverse reactions.
• Overdose: Use to treat overdose situations and monitor drug levels for appropriate intervention.
• Allergic reactions: May cause severe allergic reactions, including swelling, rash, and difficulty breathing; monitor closely during administration.
• Hypersensitivity: Do not use if allergic to the drug or any of its components.

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

Side effects are unwanted symptoms caused by medicines. Although all drugs can cause side effects, not everyone experiences them.

Common side effects of Tacrolimus include:

• Hypertension
• Diabetes mellitus
• Fever
• Tremor
• High blood glucose levels
• Leukopenia (low white blood cell count)
• Infection
• Anemia
• Urinary tract infection
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Stomach pain
• Insomnia
• Paresthesia (tingling or numbness)
• Nausea

Serious side effects of Tacrolimus include:

• CMV infection (Cytomegalovirus)
• Bronchitis
• Abnormal kidney function
• Pericardial effusion (fluid around the heart)
• High blood levels of cholesterol, potassium, and magnesium

Allergic reactions to report immediately:

• Excessive sweating
• Chest pain
• Tremors

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. Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual side effects or have concerns about your treatment.

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.