GENERIC NAME: CYCLOSPORINE - ORAL CAPSULE (sye-klo-SPORE-een)
BRAND NAME(S): Sandimmune
Warning | Medication Uses | Other 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: Cyclosporine is used to prevent or treat organ rejection in transplant patients.
OTHER USES: This medication may also be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, a specific skin disorder (psoriasis), and has other uses as determined by your doctor.
HOW TO USE: This medication is taken orally. The capsules are to be swallowed whole. Take this medication at the same time each day and consistently with or without food. Follow the dosing schedule for this medication carefully. If you were previously taking another brand of this medication, your dosing may be changed. Ask your doctor any questions you have about your treatment.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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