Cyclosporine

Cyclosporine — Uses and Benefits

Cyclosporine is mainly used to stop the immune system from rejecting a transplanted organ and to control certain autoimmune diseases.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Preventing rejection after kidney, liver, or heart transplant
• Severe active rheumatoid arthritis that has not responded to other treatments
• Severe psoriasis affecting large areas of skin
• Certain cases of nephrotic syndrome (a kidney disorder causing protein loss in urine)
• Sometimes used for severe dry eye disease and other autoimmune conditions as directed

HOW IT WORKS

• It suppresses specific immune cells (T-lymphocytes) that attack the transplanted organ or the body's own tissues
• This reduces inflammation and prevents the immune system from causing further damage

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller and does not treat infections
• It is not used for mild skin conditions or mild joint pain
• It should not be used casually without medical supervision due to serious risks
• It is not a cure but a long-term control measure for the underlying condition

How to Use Cyclosporine

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once or twice a day
• Take it at the same time each day to keep blood levels steady
• Take it consistently either always with food or always without food, as advised, since food affects absorption
• Do not take with grapefruit or grapefruit juice
• Swallow capsules whole; if using the liquid form, mix it as instructed and use the provided dosing device
• Do not stop or change the dose without consulting your doctor, even if you feel well
• Regular blood tests are needed to monitor drug levels, kidney function, and blood pressure

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take double doses to make up for a missed one
• Inform your doctor if you miss doses frequently

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat, light, and moisture
• Keep the capsules or liquid in their original container
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Cyclosporine — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Increased hair growth
• Tremor (shaking of hands)
• Nausea or stomach upset
• Gum swelling
• High blood pressure

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
• Muscle cramps
• Acne
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Signs of infection such as fever, chills, or sore throat
• Reduced urine output or swelling of legs (possible kidney problems)
• Yellowing of eyes or skin, dark urine (possible liver problems)
• Severe headache with vision changes or seizures
• Unusual bruising or bleeding
• Signs of severe allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of face, or difficulty breathing

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Cyclosporine — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and must only be used under close medical supervision, with regular monitoring.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to cyclosporine or any of its ingredients
• Have uncontrolled high blood pressure or active severe infections
• Have poor kidney function that your doctor considers unsuitable (except in specific transplant situations)

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney or liver disease
• Have high blood pressure
• Have a history of seizures
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have any current infection
• Are taking other medicines that affect the immune system

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Certain antibiotics and antifungal medicines
• Blood pressure medicines, especially potassium-sparing diuretics
• NSAID painkillers like ibuprofen or diclofenac
• Statins used for cholesterol
• Other immunosuppressants
• Certain anti-seizure medicines
• St. John's Wort and some herbal supplements

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine long-term?

Yes, many patients need it for long periods, but this requires regular blood tests and doctor follow-up.

Will it affect my ability to fight infections?

Yes, it weakens your immune system, so you may catch infections more easily; report fever or illness promptly.

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

• It is best to avoid or limit alcohol as it can add stress to the liver and interact with the medicine.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.