Tacrolimus (1mg)

Tacrolimus (1mg) — Uses and Benefits

Tacrolimus is used mainly to prevent the body's immune system from rejecting a transplanted organ such as a kidney, liver or heart.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Prevention of organ rejection after kidney, liver or heart transplant
• Sometimes used, under specialist supervision, for certain autoimmune or inflammatory skin conditions
• Used along with other immunosuppressant medicines as part of a combination regimen

HOW IT WORKS

• Tacrolimus blocks certain immune cells (T-lymphocytes) from becoming active
• This lowers the immune response that would otherwise attack the transplanted organ
• It helps the transplanted organ survive and function normally

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller and does not treat infections
• It is not used for common allergies or minor skin rashes
• It should not be used without a doctor's prescription and regular monitoring, as it needs blood level checks

How to Use Tacrolimus (1mg)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually at the same times every day
• Swallow capsules/tablets whole with water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Take on an empty stomach or consistently with food, as instructed by your doctor, since food can affect absorption
• Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice as it can affect drug levels
• 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 sugar

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for the next dose
• Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses often, discuss with your doctor about adjusting reminders
• Contact your doctor if you missed a dose after a transplant, as this is important

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture and direct sunlight
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Keep in the original container/blister until ready to use

Tacrolimus (1mg) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Tremors or shaking of hands
• Diarrhoea or upset stomach
• Nausea
• High blood pressure
• Difficulty sleeping

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Increased blood sugar levels
• Swelling of hands, feet or face
• Changes in kidney function tests
• Hair thinning or excessive hair growth
• Muscle cramps
• Tingling or numbness in hands and feet

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Signs of infection such as fever, chills, sore throat
• Severe reduction in urine output or swelling suggesting kidney problems
• Chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or severe breathlessness
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (signs of liver problems)
• Seizures, confusion, severe headache or vision changes
• Signs of severe allergic reaction such as swelling of face/throat, difficulty breathing, rash

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

Tacrolimus (1mg) — Safety Information and Precautions

Tacrolimus is a prescription-only medicine in India and should only be used under close supervision of a doctor who can monitor blood levels and organ function.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to tacrolimus or any ingredient in the product
• Are taking cyclosporine at the same time, unless specifically advised
• Have been told by your doctor not to use it due to a specific medical condition

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney or liver disease
• Have diabetes or high blood sugar
• Have high blood pressure or heart problems
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have any current infection or recent vaccination
• Have a history of skin cancer or other cancers

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other immunosuppressants such as cyclosporine
• Certain antifungal medicines like ketoconazole, fluconazole
• Certain antibiotics such as erythromycin, rifampicin
• Blood pressure medicines and diuretics
• NSAIDs (pain relievers) which may affect kidney function
• Live vaccines, which should generally be avoided during treatment

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking tacrolimus?

It is best to avoid or limit alcohol as it can add strain on the liver and interact with the medicine; ask your doctor for specific advice.

Will I need regular blood tests?

Yes, regular monitoring of tacrolimus blood levels, kidney function and blood sugar is essential throughout treatment.

Can I take this medicine during pregnancy?

• Tacrolimus should only be used in pregnancy if your doctor feels it is necessary, with careful monitoring.
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