Tacrolimus Capsules

Description

Brand name: Prograf

Generic name: Tacrolimus

What is tacrolimus and what is it used for:

Tacrolimus is a medication used to prevent organ rejection in patients who have received a kidney, liver, or heart transplant. It belongs to a class of medications called immunosuppressants, which work by suppressing the immune system to prevent it from attacking the transplanted organ. Tacrolimus is usually given in combination with other immunosuppressant medications.

How to take tacrolimus:

Tacrolimus is taken orally, usually twice daily, either with or without food. The dosage and duration of treatment will depend on the individual’s condition and response to treatment. It is important to take tacrolimus exactly as prescribed, and not to stop or change the dosage without consulting a healthcare provider.

Possible side effects of tacrolimus:

Tacrolimus may cause some side effects, including:

Tremors
Headache
Nausea
Diarrhea
Increased risk of infection
Increased risk of cancer, especially skin cancer
High blood pressure
Kidney problems
Changes in blood sugar levels
If any of these side effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor immediately. Seek emergency medical attention if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Precautions and warnings for tacrolimus:

Before taking tacrolimus, inform your doctor if you have any medical conditions, such as kidney disease, liver disease, or high blood pressure. Tacrolimus may interact with certain medications, including antibiotics, antifungal medications, and HIV medications. It is important to inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Tacrolimus should not be used during pregnancy unless specifically recommended by a healthcare provider. It is also important to inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding, as tacrolimus can pass into breast milk.

It is important to attend regular doctor appointments and report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider while taking tacrolimus. Tacrolimus is a prescription medication and should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare provider.