Prograf

tacrolimus

Brand(s):

• Tacimun Tacrograf

Manufacturer:

• Bharat Serums And Vaccines Limited

Disease(s):

• Organ Rejection

Known as:

• Prograf / Protopic

Tacrolimus Capsules

What is Tacrolimus?

Tacrolimus is an immunosuppressant medication. Its primary function is to suppress the body's immune system, reducing the risk of organ rejection after a transplant. By weakening the immune response, tacrolimus helps the body accept the transplanted organ as its own.

Important Information Before Taking Tacrolimus

Before starting treatment with tacrolimus, it's crucial to inform your healthcare provider about your medical history. This includes any pre-existing conditions, such as:

• Diabetes: Tacrolimus can affect blood sugar levels.
• Heart disease or heart failure: Tacrolimus may worsen existing heart conditions.
• High blood pressure: Tacrolimus can impact blood pressure.
• Immune system problems: Pre-existing immune deficiencies can be exacerbated.
• Infection: Tacrolimus weakens the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections.
• Kidney disease: Tacrolimus is processed by the kidneys, and kidney function should be monitored.
• Liver disease: Tacrolimus is metabolized by the liver; liver function needs to be assessed.
• Allergies: Any known allergies to tacrolimus, lactose, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives must be disclosed.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding: Tacrolimus can potentially harm a developing fetus or infant.

Your doctor will carefully weigh the risks and benefits before prescribing tacrolimus, especially if you have any of these conditions.

How to Take Tacrolimus

Tacrolimus capsules are for oral administration. Always take them with a full glass of water. Consistent dosing is key; take the medication at the same time each day. If your doctor instructs you to take it with food, always follow that instruction. Importantly, avoid grapefruit juice as it can interact with tacrolimus. Never adjust the dosage on your own; strictly adhere to your doctor’s prescription. Do not discontinue use without your physician’s explicit approval.

Children may require special dosage considerations. Consult your pediatrician for guidance on administering tacrolimus to children.

In case of an overdose, immediately contact a poison control center or emergency room.

This medication is prescribed solely for your use; do not share it with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Contact your doctor or healthcare provider for advice, especially if you experience vomiting after taking a dose.

Drug Interactions

Certain medications can interact negatively with tacrolimus, potentially leading to adverse effects or reduced effectiveness. Never take tacrolimus with the following medications without consulting your doctor:

• Astemizole
• Cidofovir
• Cisapride
• Cyclosporine
• Droperidol
• Grepafloxacin
• Pimozide
• Probucol
• Ziprasidone

Tacrolimus can also interact with the following medications. Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements:

• Alcohol and alcohol-containing medicines
• Aminoglycosides
• Amphotericin B
• Antacids
• Bromocriptine
• Calcium channel blockers (diltiazem, nicardipine, nifedipine, verapamil)
• Carbamazepine
• Caspofungin
• Protease inhibitors
• Chloramphenicol
• Cimetidine
• Cisplatin
• Clarithromycin
• Danazol
• Diuretics
• Erythromycin
• Ethinyl estradiol
• Ganciclovir
• Antifungal medications (clotrimazole, fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole)
• Metoclopramide
• Omeprazole
• Phenobarbital
• Phenytoin
• Rifabutin
• Rifampin
• Sirolimus
• St. John's wort
• Steroid medicines (prednisone, cortisone)
• Troleandomycin
• Vaccines

Monitoring While Taking Tacrolimus

Regular check-ups with your doctor are essential while on tacrolimus. You will require frequent blood tests to monitor your medication levels and kidney and liver function. Report any signs of infection (fever, chills) immediately; tacrolimus can suppress your immune response, making you more vulnerable to infections.

Tacrolimus can increase sun sensitivity. Minimize sun exposure, wear protective clothing, and use sunscreen with a high SPF when outdoors. Avoid tanning beds and sun lamps.

Possible Side Effects

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following serious side effects:

• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, hives, facial swelling)
• Burning or tingling in hands or feet
• Vision changes
• Chest pain
• Breathing difficulties, wheezing
• Fever, chills, or other infection signs
• Frequent urination
• Increased thirst or hunger
• Painful or difficult urination
• Skin reactions (redness, blistering, peeling)
• Seizures
• Swelling of feet or legs, sudden weight gain
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Extreme fatigue
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)

Less serious side effects that often resolve on their own but should be reported to your doctor if they persist or bother you:

• Confusion
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Sleep disturbances
• Headache
• Nausea
• Tremor

This is not an exhaustive list of all possible side effects.

Storage

Keep tacrolimus out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F). Discard any unused medication after the expiration date.