Tacrolimus (Injection) (Prograf) - Drugs Information, Side Effects, & Interactions

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Tacrolimus (ta-KROE-li-mus)

Keeps your body from rejecting an organ transplant, such as a kidney or liver.

Prograf
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to tacrolimus or castor oil.

Injectable

Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins. You will receive the medicine continuously until you are able to take the capsule form of tacrolimus. The needle will have to remain in place around the clock while you are receiving the IV form of tacrolimus.
A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine. It may also be given by a home health caregiver. You will be kept under observation for about 30 minutes after you start to receive this medicine, especially if you are getting it for the first time.
Never share your medicine with anyone.

If a dose is missed:

This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

If you store this medicine at home, keep it in a cool, dry place. Protect from heat and direct light.
Keep all medicine away from children.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking cyclosporine (Neoral®, Sandimmune®), St. John's wort, antibiotics, cancer medicines, diuretics or "water pills" (such as Aldactazide®, Aldactone®, Dyazide®, Maxzide®, Midamor®, Moduretic®), heart or blood pressure medicine (such as verapamil, Adalat®, Calan®, Cardizem®, Lotrel®, Plendil®, Procardia®, Tiazac®), or medicine for seizures (such as Dilantin®, Luminal®, Tegretol®). There are many other medicines that may interact with tacrolimus. Tell your doctor about ALL other medicines you are using.
Talk to your doctor before getting flu shots or other vaccines while you are receiving tacrolimus. Vaccines may not work as well while you are using this medicine.
Do not drink alcohol, eat grapefruit, or drink grapefruit juice while you are taking this medicine.

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or high blood pressure.
Your doctor will need to check your blood or urine at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.
This medicine lowers the number of some types of blood cells in your body. Because of this, you may bleed or get infections more easily. To help with these problems, avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Wash your hands often. Stay away from rough sports or other situations where you could be bruised, cut, or injured. Brush and floss your teeth gently. Be careful when using sharp objects, including razors and fingernail clippers.
Some people who have had transplants and used tacrolimus have developed diabetes, especially people who are Hispanic or African-American and have had a kidney transplant. You may also have a higher risk of skin cancer or cancer of the lymph system while using tacrolimus. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about these risks.

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing
Change in how much or how often you urinate
Confusion, weakness, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, numbness or tingling in hands, feet, or lips
Fast, slow, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
Fever, chills, sore throat, cough
Increased thirst or hunger
Numbness, tingling, swelling, or burning pain in your hands, arms, legs, or feet
Tremors or shaking
Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Mild skin rash
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite, stomach pain or upset
Trouble sleeping

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