Tacrolimus

TACROLIMUS – ORAL (tack-row-LEE-muss)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Prograf

WARNING: Tacrolimus may leave you less able to fight infection and could also cause tumors. This medication must be used in an appropriate setting. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection (such as persistent sore throat or fever), or unusual growths.

USES: Tacrolimus is used to prevent the body from rejecting a transplanted organ.

OTHER USES: This medication may also be used for other purposes as determined by your doctor.

HOW TO TAKE THIS MEDICATION: Take this medication by mouth exactly as prescribed usually every 12 hours. Your dose may be adjusted based on your response and tolerance. Follow dosing instructions closely. Do not increase the dose or take this more often than directed since the chance of side effects will be increased.

SIDE EFFECTS: Tremor, headache, diarrhea, nausea, increased blood pressure, trouble sleeping or tingling of the hands or feet may occur. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: skin rash, vomiting, dizziness, anxiety, fever, chills, weakness, vision changes, chest pain, easy bruising or bleeding, swelling of the feet or ankles, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease, liver disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, any allergies. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breast-feeding. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all over-the-counter or prescription medications you may use, including: cyclosporine, cimetidine, bromocriptine, antibiotics, heart medications (e.g., nifedipine), vaccines, ‘statin’ drugs for high cholesterol, anti-seizure medicines, nefazodone. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

NOTES: Laboratory tests will be done frequently while taking this medication to monitor the effects and prevent side effects.

MISSED DOSE: Take this medication as directed. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not ‘double-up’ the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Store this medication at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.