Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: TACROLIMUS - ORAL (tack-row-LEE-muss)
BRAND NAME(S): Prograf
Warning | Medication Uses | Other Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
WARNING: Tacrolimus may leave you less able to fight infection and could also cause tumors. This medication must be used in an appropriate setting. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection (such as persistent sore throat or fever), or unusual growths.
USES: Tacrolimus is used to prevent the body from rejecting a transplanted organ.
OTHER USES: This medication may also be used for other purposes as determined by your doctor.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth exactly as prescribed, usually every 12 hours. It is best taken on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. If stomach upset occurs, you may take this medication with food; however, this may decrease the amount of tacrolimus absorbed into your bloodstream. If you take this on an empty stomach, always take it on an empty stomach. If you take it with food, always take it with food. Consult your doctor for more details (since your doctor will be monitoring the amount of this drug in your blood). Your dose may be adjusted based on your response, tolerance, and blood tests (tacrolimus trough blood levels). Follow dosing instructions closely. Do not increase the dose or take this more often than directed since the chance of side effects will be increased. Continue taking this medication as directed even if you are feeling well. Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice unless your doctor instructs you otherwise.
SIDE EFFECTS: Tremor, headache, diarrhea, nausea, increased blood pressure, trouble sleeping or tingling of the hands or feet may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Notify your doctor promptly if you develop: vomiting, dizziness, anxiety, fever, chills, weakness, vision changes, chest pain, easy bruising or bleeding, swelling of the feet or ankles. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: fainting, irregular heartbeat. 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, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
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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