What is tacrolimus?
Tacrolimus lowers your body's immune system. The immune system helps your body fight infections. The immune system can also fight or "reject" a transplanted organ such as a liver or kidney. This is because the immune system treats the new organ as an invader.
Tacrolimus is used together with other medicines to prevent your body from rejecting a heart, liver, or kidney transplant.
Tacrolimus may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
How should I use tacrolimus?
Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor.
Tacrolimus injection is given through a needle placed into a vein. You will receive this injection shortly after your transplant.
After receiving a tacrolimus injection, you may need to be checked at regular intervals to make sure you do not have an allergic reaction to the medication.
Tacrolimus injection must be given around-the-clock through an IV infusion, until you are ready to take the pill form of tacrolimus.
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 this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your kidney or liver function may also need to be tested. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.
Store tacrolimus at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
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 using tacrolimus?
Do not use 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.
Tacrolimus side effects
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:
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pain in the lower back or side;
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urinating less than usual or not at all;
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painful urination, blood in your urine;
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problems with your vision, speech, or coordination;
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tremor (shaking), headache, confusion, numbness or tingly feeling;
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pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness;
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fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;
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muscle weakness, tiredness, fast or pounding heartbeat, mild shortness of breath; or
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increased urination, thirst, or hunger.
Other, less serious side effects may also occur, such as:
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swelling in your hands or feet;
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nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite;
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sleep problems (insomnia); or
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itching skin or mild rash.
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