GENERIC NAME: CYCLOSPORINE - IV (sye-klo-SPORE-een)

BRAND NAME(S): Sandimmune

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

WARNING: Cyclosporine reduces the body's ability to fight illness/disease (immunosuppressant), leaving patients vulnerable to infection or other problems (including cancer). Using additional drugs that treat organ transplant rejection may increase these tendencies. Certain brands of cyclosporine must not be used with other immunosuppressants. Cyclosporine can also cause high blood pressure and kidney problems. The risk of both problems increase with increasing dose and length of therapy. Psoriasis patients who have had certain previous treatments (e.g., PUVA, UVB, coal tar, radiation therapy, methotrexate) are at increased risk to develop cancerous skin growths (malignancies). Therefore, cyclosporine must be given only under close medical supervision. Because different brands deliver different amounts of medication, do not switch brands of cyclosporine without your doctor's permission. Laboratory tests (e.g., kidney function tests, blood tests) may be performed to monitor your progress.

USES: This medication is used to prevent or treat organ rejection in transplant patients. It has also been used with success in a variety of illnesses.

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection into a vein over 2 to 6 hours when the oral forms cannot be tolerated. Follow the dosing schedule carefully. Ask your doctor any questions you have about your treatment.

SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause stomach upset, nausea, cramps, diarrhea or headache. Other possible side effects include high blood pressure, increased hair growth on the face and body, acne, tremor, swollen or inflamed gums, tingling of the hands or feet. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: mental confusion, blurred vision, fever, sore throat, stomach pain, hearing difficulty, chest pain, urine color change, fatigue, unusual bleeding or bruising, change in the amount of urine. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

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