PROGRAF

This medicine contains the active ingredient tacrolimus which belongs to a group of medicines known as immunosuppressants. Tacrolimus affects the immune system by suppressing it and the body does not produce certain cells which cause the immune reaction. This medicine is prescribed after an organ transplant (such as liver, kidney, heart) or tissue transplant so that the transplant would be more easily accepted by your body.

Is Tacrolimus suitable for me?

Tacrolimus is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it

• if you are allergic to tacrolimus, macrolide types of antibiotics or to other ingredients of this medicine

In particular, you must tell the doctor if you:

• are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or breastfeeding 
• have any signs of infection or cancer
• have liver problems
• have kidney problems
• have high blood pressure
• have had diarrhea for more than one day

Tacrolimus interacts with other medicines. It is most important that you tell the doctor all the medications and herbal supplements that you are currently taking.

See the package leaflet for a complete list of possible contraindications and warnings.

How should I take Tacrolimus?

This medicine is available in form of a capsule.  

You should take tacrolimus exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist. The dose will be determined according to your weight and condition.

• The usual starting dose is between 0.075 and 0.30 mg/kg per day divided in two doses.

Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, or do not use it for a longer time than your doctor instructed. Also, this medicine works best if there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep this amount constant, do not miss any doses and take the medicine at the same time each day. Do not take two doses together if you miss a dose.

Read the information leaflet provided with your medication for additional information. Talk to your doctor if you have any additional questions.

What are Tacrolimus side effects?

Like all medicines tacrolimus can cause side effects, including:

Very common:

• kidney problems
• increased blood sugar
• diabetes mellitus
• increased potassium in the blood
• difficulty in sleeping
• trembling
• headache
• increased blood pressure
• diarrhea
• nausea

Common:

• reduction in blood cell counts
• reduced magnesium, phosphate, potassium, calcium or sodium in the blood
• fluid overload, increased uric acid or lipids in the blood
• decreased appetite, increased acidity of the blood
• anxiety symptoms, confusion and disorientation
• depression, mood changes
• nightmare, hallucinations, mental disorders
• dizziness, impaired writing ability
•  nervous system disorders
• blurred vision, increased sensitivity to light
• eye disorders
• ringing sound in your ears
• reduced blood flow in the heart vessels, faster heartbeat
• bleeding, partial or complete blocking of blood vessels
•  reduced blood pressure
• shortness in breath, changes in the lung tissue
• collection of liquid around the lung
• cough, flu-like symptoms
• inflammations or ulcers
• abdominal pain or diarrhea
• bleedings in the stomach
• inflammations or ulcers in the mouth
• collection of fluid in the belly
• vomiting, abdominal pains
• indigestion, constipation
• flatulence, bloating
• changes in liver enzymes and function
• yellowing of the skin due to liver problems
• liver tissue damage and inflammation of the liver
• itching, rash, hair loss, acne
• increased sweating
• pain in joints, limbs or back, muscle cramps
• insufficient function of the kidneys
• reduced production of urine, impaired or painful urination
• general weakness, fever
• collection of fluid in your body, pain and discomfort
• increase of the enzyme alkaline phosphatase in your blood
• weight gain,
• insufficient function of your transplanted organ

Consult a doctor if the side effects are severe. See the package leaflet for a complete list of side effects.