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Cyclosporine

This page contains brief details about the drug cyclosporine, it’s indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Cyclosporine is an immunosuppressant which was approved for its medical use on 1983.

Mechanism of Action of Cyclosporine

Cyclosporine is an immunosuppressant which prevents organ rejection in organ transplantation. It is classified as an immunosuppressant belonging to the category of Calcineurin inhibitors. Cyclosporine works inhibiting cytochrome P450 3A4, P-glycoprotein and interleukins to suppress the cell mediated immune response. Cyclosporine is often prescribed along with other immunosuppressants like azathioprine and mycophenolate mofetil.

Uses of Cyclosporine

Cyclosporine has been developed to prevent organ rejection in adult and pediatric patients receiving an allogeneic transplant of the liver, kidney, heart, or lung. it is indicated for It is also prescribed to treat rheumatoid arthritis for patients who have not responded adequately to methotrexate.

Cyclosporine Drug administaration and Dosage available

Cyclosporine is available in the form of capsule, injection and oral solution. Cyclosporine Capsule is available in the doses 25mg, 50mg and 100mg. Your healthcare provider will administer Cyclosporine 50mg Injection if you are unable to tolerate oral capsule or suspension. Your healthcare provider will prescribe the accurate dose based on the organ transplanted, body weight and health condition.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Cyclosporine

Warnings

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms like changes in eyesight, confusion, memory loss, or breathing difficulty after taking Cyclosporine. During the Cyclosporine treatment, your doctor may periodically monitor your complete blood count, blood pressure, blood sugar, electrolytes, and kidney parameters to prevent serious complications. You will also be monitored for the concentration of Cyclosporine in your blood to check how well you are responding to this treatment. Report to your doctor if you have been diagnosed with blood disorders, diabetes, cancer, hypertension, and heart and kidney problems. Avoid receiving live vaccines during this treatment.

Precautions

Cyclosporine has the ability to cause fetal harm, so it is advisable to tell your physician if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby. This medicine also has the tendency to increase blood pressure and blood sugar levels in pregnant women. Avoid breastfeeding your baby while you are on the treatment as Cyclosporine can impact the growth and development of the baby by passing into the breast milk. Discuss effective contraceptive options with your healthcare provider before starting this treatment to prevent unwanted pregnancy.

Side Effects

The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Cyclosporine are abnormal kidney function, liver problems, fits, hypertension, fever, excessive body and facial hair growth, tremor, high blood glucose levels, leukopenia, infection, anemia, diarrhea, headache, stomach pain/ulcer, nausea, vomiting, high levels of blood cholesterol, uric acid, potassium, and low magnesium. If you experience any allergic reactions such as breathlessness, fluctuation in blood pressure, wheezing, or rapid heartbeat, report to your doctor immediately.

Word Of Advice

Cyclosporine can make your skin sensitive. Apply sunscreen with a good SPF and wear protective clothing before you step out in the sun. Tell your healthcare provider before starting this treatment if you have been diagnosed with lactose intolerance. Cyclosporine contains alcohol in a small amount. Although this has a negligible effect on your ability to drive, avoid driving or operating machinery if you feel dizzy or tired.

Frequently Asked Question

People who have experienced hypersensitivity to Cyclosporine and or any of its ingredients should not use Cyclosporine. Avoid taking Cyclosporine if you have been diagnosed with uncontrolled hypertension, kidney impairment or cancer.
Avoid receiving live attenuated vaccines, and drinking red wine, grapefruit, or grapefruit juice while on treatment with Cyclosporine. Avoid consuming foods high in potassium content. Wear protective clothing and use effective sunscreen to prevent skin damage due to sun exposure.
Cyclosporine Injection is prescribed if you are unable to tolerate oral doses. You will be shifted to oral Cyclosporine treatment as soon as possible.
Cyclosporine is associated with some serious side effects such as liver impairment, kidney damage, blood clots, high risk of infections, high blood pressure, etc.

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.