DRUG TITLE

Prograf (Tacrolimus)

APPLICATION

Prograf is used to prevent rejection of transplanted organs.

MODE OF APPLICATION

Prograf is taken twice a day. Doses vary and are based on blood tests that measure the amount of Prograf in the body. Taking Prograf with food can reduce some of the abdominal pain that may occur when it is receiving, but the food can reduce the effective absorption of Prograf. This is especially when consuming fatty foods. Thus Prograf is best to take on an empty stomach. If it is taken with meals, it should be taken with foods that are not fat.

THE MECHANISM OF ACTION

Prograf is a drug that put down the immune system and is used to prevent rejection of transplanted organs. Prograf does its immune-overwhelming activity by inhibiting an enzyme (calcineurin), which is crucial for the reproduction of T-cells, which are vital to the immune process. Use of oral pills Prograf allows transplantation specialists in the body to reduce the dose of steroids, which are also used to prevent rejection. This "steroid sparing effect" is important because it can prevent the side effect that happens when large doses of steroids during their prolonged admission. Prograf was approved by the FDA in April 1994 for liver transplantation, and has been used in transplant patients heart, kidney, small intestine, and bone marrow transplantation.

MISSED DOSE

Take this medication as directed. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, if it occurred during the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing. Do not take a double dose.

STORAGE

This drug is stored 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 drugs out of children.

PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES

Prograf can cause cancer. This medication should be used strictly as directed by your doctor. Tell your doctor if you develop signs of infection (e.g. sore throat or fever). Tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease, liver disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, allergies. This medication is not recommended for use if you have the following diseases: heart disease (e.g., QT prolongation). This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

SIDE EFFECTS

Prograf is associated with many and various side effects. These include baldness (which can occur in 1 in 5 patients), anemia (1 of 2), anorexia (1 of 3), diarrhea (3 of 4), high concentrations of potassium in the blood (1 in 2), high blood Pressure (1 of 2), nausea (1 of 2), vomiting (1 out of 4), tingling in the extremities (2 of 5), itching (1 of 3), tremor (1 of 2), fever (1 of 2) and headache (2 of 3), rash (1 of 4), high blood sugar levels (from 1 to 3 and 1 in 2), and abdominal pain (1in 4). Other side effects may include soreness of the joints, increased sensitivity to light, blurred vision, insomnia, infection, jaundice (yellowing of the skin due to effects on the liver), kidney injury, ankles can flow off, and convulsion.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

If you have any questions about Prograf, please talk to your doctor.
Prograf should be used only on prescription.
If symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.