What's Tacrolimus?
Tacrolimus (also known as FK506 or prograf) is an immunosuppressant medication that prevents the body rejecting transplanted tissue and organs. Tacrolimus suppresses the immune system, preventing healthy cells from being attacked and destroyed. Tacrolimus was used to transplant kidneys, livers, hearts, and pancreas. It is currently being investigated for its potential use in the treatment of autoimmune conditions such as Crohn's, psoriasis and rheumatoid.
Tacrolimus is used
Tacrolimus, which has been extensively studied and approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has been shown to prevent organ rejection among patients who have had solid organ transplants. Tacrolimus can be used to reduce organ rejection risk by up to 50% according studies . Tarolimus can also be used with immunosuppressive medications to lower the chance of bone marrow transplant recipients developing graft-versus host disease.
Tarolimus' primary use is:
- To prevent organ rejection after organ transplantation
- To treat certain autoimmune disorders
- Reduce the chance of bone marrow transplant recipients contracting graft-versus host disease
Tacrolimus has potential benefits
Tacrolimus may have several benefits. It can reduce the likelihood of rejection of organs and improve the survival rate of transplanted organs. Tacrolimus may also reduce the likelihood of bone marrow transplant patients contracting graft-versus host disease. Tarolimus is also being studied as an option to treat certain auto-immune disorders such as Crohn's and psoriasis.
Tarolimus has been shown to be effective in these ways according to studies :
- Patients undergoing transplants are less likely to experience rejection of their organs
- Long-term survival of transplanted organs is improved
- Recipients of bone marrow transplants are less likely to contract graft-versus host disease
- This may help reduce the symptoms of some autoimmune disorders
Tacrolimus Side Effects
Tacrolimus may cause nausea, vomiting and Diarrhea . Tacrolimus can also cause severe complications such as increased infection risk, Hypertension and anemia. Before starting any treatment, patients should talk to their doctors about potential side effects or risks.
Tarolimus can cause side effects such as:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Rash
- Fever
- Tests for abnormal liver function
- Increased infection risk
- Hypertension
- Anemia
Tacrolimus: Experts' and Professionals' Opinions
Professionals and experts agree tacrolimus can be used to prevent organ rejection and reduce the chance of developing graft-versus host disease. Experts warn of the possibility for side effects. They recommend that patients closely monitor their health while on tacrolimus. Experts are concerned about tacrolimus' potential to raise the possibility of infection. They recommend that all patients get appropriate vaccines before starting treatment.
Tacrolimus: How do you get started?
Tacrolimus can be prescribed by doctors and comes in generic as well as brand-name versions. Tacrolimus dosage recommendations vary depending on patient's weight and other medical conditions. Tarolimus should be taken exactly as prescribed by the doctor. Patients must not alter their dose without first consulting their doctor. Tarolimus may interact with certain drugs, so patients should talk to their doctors.
Side effects can also occur with tacrolimus. Patients need to be alert and contact their physician immediately if they have any concerns.
- Fever, chills or sore throat are signs of an infection
- Grave abdominal pain
- Extreme fatigue and weakness
- Bleeding or bruising that is unusual
- Eyes or skin yellowing
- Dark urine
Conclusion
Tacrolimus, an immunosuppressant medication used to stop the body rejecting transplanted organs or tissues is known as Tacrolimus. The FDA approved it for transplant patients to prevent organ rejection. It is currently being investigated for its potential use in the treatment of certain autoimmune diseases. Tarolimus has been shown to reduce organ rejection rates and increase long-term survival rates for transplanted organs. Tacrolimus can have side effects such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Before starting any treatment, patients should talk to their doctor about potential side effects.
Tarolimus, in conclusion is effective in preventing transplant rejection and decreasing the chance of developing graft-versus host disease in recipients. Patients should know about the possible side effects of tacrolimus and talk with their doctors about other drugs they may be taking. Tarolimus is known to interact with certain medications. Tarolimus is a great option for transplant patients as well as those with certain autoimmune conditions.