Brand names Neoral,Sandimmun
Used in the following combined preparations None
GENERAL INFORMATION
Introduced in 1984, cyclosporin is one of the immunosuppressants, a group of drugs that suppress the body’s natural defences against infection and foreign cells. This action is of particular use following organ transplants, when the
recipient’s immune system may reject the transplanted organ unless the immune system is controlled.
Cyclosporin is now widely used after many types of transplant surgery, such as heart, kidney, bone marrow, liver, and pancreas; its use has considerably reduced the risk of tissue rejection. It is sometimes used to treat rheumatoid
arthritis and severe psoriasis when other treatments have failed.
Because cyclosporin reduces the effectiveness of the immune system, people being treated with this drug are more susceptible than usual to infections.
Cyclosporin can also cause kidney damage.
It is important not to make dose changes on your own. Ask your pharmacist for a patient information leaflet printed by the manufacturer. Owing to the differences in blood levels of the drug between the brands, it is important that
the brand to be used is specified. If your doctor wants to transfer you from one brand to the other, the change will be made in a controlled way.
INFORMATION FOR USERS
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking with your doctor.
How taken
Capsules, liquid, injection.
Frequency and timing of doses
1-2 x daily.
Dosage range
Dosage is calculated on an individual basis according to age and weight.
Onset of effect
Within 12 hours.
Duration of action
Up to 3 days.
Diet advice
Avoid high-potassium foods and potassium supplements.
Storage
Capsules should be left in the blister pack until required. Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children. Do not refrigerate.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember. If your dose is more than 36 hours late, consult your doctor.
Stopping the drug
Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor; stopping the drug may lead to transplant rejection.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to cause problems. Large overdoses may cause headaches and affect kidney function. Notify your doctor.
POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
The most common adverse effects are gum swelling, excessive hair growth, nausea and vomiting, and tremor. Headache and muscle cramps may also occur. Less common effects are diarrhoea, facial swelling, flushing, “pins and needles” sensations, rash, and itching.
INTERACTIONS
General note
Cyclosporin may interact with a large number of drugs. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new prescription or over-the-counter medications.
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Immunosuppressant drug
Overdose danger rating Medium
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic No
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Cyclosporin is prescribed only under close medical supervision, taking account of your present condition and medical history.
Pregnancy
Not usually prescribed. Safety in pregnancy not established. Discuss with your doctor.
Breast-feeding
Not recommended. The drug passes into the breast milk and safety has not been established. Discuss with your doctor.
Infants and children
Safety not established; used only with great caution.
Over 60
Reduced dose may be necessary.
Driving and hazardous work
No known problems.
Alcohol
No known problems.
PROLONGED USE
Long-term use, especially in high doses, can affect kidney and/or liver function.
It may reduce numbers of white blood cells, thus increasing susceptibility to infection.
Monitoring Regular blood tests are normally carried out to measure drug levels and to monitor blood composition, as well as liver and kidney function.
