We went to the Dr. on Monday and Dr. Lee has prescribed a new medicine that we will start this evening. His levels are not bad but not great either. We feel that we need to take the next step to get him better. We have looked into the new medicine and it sounds real scary but the Dr has explained to us that these side effects are uncommon and that she feels this is the best track that we need to go down. We trust the Dr's that care for Zack and we are confident that we are making the right choices for him.
What is the most important information I should know about tacrolimus?
Taking tacrolimus may increase your risk of developing certain types of cancer, especially skin cancer. The risk may be higher in people who are treated over long periods of time with drugs that weaken the immune system. Talk with your doctor about your individual risk.
****Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). Use a sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing if you must be out in the sun.
There are many other medicines that can interact with tacrolimus. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list with you of all the medicines you use and show this list to any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you.
***Do not consume grapefruit or grapefruit juice during treatment with tacrolimus unless your doctor has told you do. Tacrolimus can have a dangerous interaction with grapefruit or grapefruit juice.
Tacrolimus can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill. To be sure your blood cells do not get too low, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your kidney or liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.
What is tacrolimus?
Tacrolimus lowers your body's immune system. The immune system helps your body fight infections.
Tacrolimus may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking tacrolimus?
Taking tacrolimus may increase your risk of developing certain types of cancer, especially skin cancer. The risk may be higher in people who are treated over long periods of time with drugs that weaken the immune system. Talk with your doctor about your individual risk.
Do not take tacrolimus if you are also using cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune, Gengraf).
Before taking tacrolimus, tell your doctor if you have:
an allergy to castor oil;
kidney disease;
liver disease; or
high blood pressure.
If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication.
Some people receiving tacrolimus after a kidney transplant have developed diabetes. This effect has been seen most often in people who are Hispanic or African-American. Talk with your doctor about your individual risk of diabetes if you have concerns.
How should I take tacrolimus?
Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor.
The tacrolimus capsule is usually taken every 12 hours. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.
Tacrolimus can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill. To be sure your blood cells do not get too low, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your kidney or liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.
Store tacrolimus at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Symptoms of a tacrolimus overdose are unknown.
What should I avoid while taking tacrolimus?
Do not take tacrolimus if you are also using cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune, Gengraf).
Avoid contact with people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection.
Do not consume grapefruit or grapefruit juice during treatment with tacrolimus unless your doctor has told you do. Tacrolimus can have a dangerous interaction with grapefruit or grapefruit juice.
Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). Tacrolimus may increase the risk of skin cancer. Use a sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing if you must be out in the sun.
Do not receive a "live" vaccine while you are being treated with tacrolimus. Vaccines may not work as well during your treatment with tacrolimus.
What are the possible side effects of tacrolimus?
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
pain in the lower back or side;
urinating less than usual or not at all;
painful urination, blood in your urine;
problems with your vision, speech, or coordination;
tremor (shaking), headache, confusion, numbness or tingly feeling;
pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness;
fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;
muscle weakness, tiredness, fast or pounding heartbeat, mild shortness of breath; or
increased urination, thirst, or hunger.
Less serious side effects may include:
swelling in your hands or feet;
nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite;
sleep problems (insomnia); or
itching skin or mild rash.
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