Prograf (Tacrolimus)

Prograf (Tacrolimus) is an essential medication used to prevent organ rejection after kidney, liver, heart, or lung transplants. This is how it works:

- Immunosuppression: Prograf lowers your body’s immune response. This helps to prevent the immune system from treating the newly transplanted organ as an invader and attacking it.

- Calcineurin Inhibition: Prograf inhibits a protein called calcineurin. Calcineurin is involved in the production of interleukin-2, a molecule that promotes the development and proliferation of T cells (a type of immune cell). By blocking calcineurin, Prograf reduces the immune response, minimizing the risk of rejection.

Remember, maintaining the right balance is crucial to ensure successful transplantation while avoiding excessive immunosuppression.

Prograf is an Anti-Rejection prescription Drug used with other drugs to prevent the body from rejecting a transplanted organ. It helps keep the newly transplanted organ safe by lowering your immune system, which would otherwise treat the organ as an invader and attack it. Prograf is available in various forms, including oral capsules, granules for oral suspension, and intravenous injections.

Before taking Prograf, consider the following and consult your Doctor or Health Care Professional:

Medical Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, including:

- Liver, kidney, heart, or lung problems not related to your transplant.

- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, contact your doctor to discuss the possible impacts of Prograf on unborn babies.

- Breastfeeding: Prograf passes into breast milk, so talk to your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed.

Vaccines: Individuals that are taking Prograf should not get live vaccines.

Risk Awareness: Taking Prograf may increase the risk of serious infections or certain cancers (such as lymphoma or skin cancer). Long-term use of immunosuppressive drugs can contribute to this risk.

Monitoring: Regular medical tests are important to prevent medication errors, and to ensure your Prograf level is good and is not causing harmful effects. Attend all follow-up visits for blood or urine tests. It is recommended review the medication guides for the prescription drugs you are taking.

Avoid Sick Individuals: Stay away from people who have Flu Symptoms or have infections or other illnesses.

Brain Infection: Be on the lookout for signs of a serious brain infection, such as changes in mental state, difficulties speaking, walking problems, or decreased vision. These symptoms may develop gradually and worsen rapidly.

Remember to follow your healthcare provider’s guidance for safe and effective use of Prograf

Management of Immunosuppression:

- Only medical professionals that are experienced in immunosuppressive therapy and organ transplant management should prescribe Prograf.

- Patients receiving Prograf should be in facilities equipped with adequate laboratory and supportive medical resources.

Increased risk of developing illnesses:

- Since Prograf lowers the body's immunity Patients taking this medication have in increased risk of developing other forms of illnesses and cancers, particularly Skin cancer.

- To reduce your risk of skin cancer it is recommended that you wear protective clothing and use sunscreen with a high SPF, and to limit the time you spend in the sun.

Post-Transplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder (PTLD):

- PTLD, often related to the Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) infection, has been reported in immunosuppressed organ transplant recipients.

- The risk is higher in EBV-seronegative individuals, including many young children.

Serious Infections:

- Prograf increases the risk bacterial, viral, fungal, and protozoal infections, including opportunistic infections.

- These infections can lead to serious, even fatal, outcomes.

- The Combination of immunosuppressant therapies should be done with caution to avoid an oversuppression of the immune system.

Remember to follow your Doctor’s and/or Healthcare Professional's guidance and stay vigilant for any unusual symptoms.

Common side effects Prograf:

• Change of behaviour / increased agitation /
• Confusion
• Chills / Fever
• Blurry vision
• Cough
• Diarrhea / Nausea / Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Dry / cotton mouth
• Flushed, dry skin
• Increased urination

Less Common Side Effects:

• Chest pain
• Increased sensitivity to pain
• Increased frequency or intensity of Muscle
• Cramps
• Numbness or pain in the legs and arms
• Ringing of the ears

Remember that this list is not exhaustive, and other more serious side effects or medical problems may also occur. If you experience any unusual symptoms, promptly consult your doctor for medical advice.

Save $5 off when you buy Prograf online using coupon code TACRO2024

Discounts and promotions for ot  her drugs can be found here.