Tacrolimus is an immunosuppressant that was approved for its medical use on 8th April 1994.

Studies show that tacrolimus is as effective or more effective than cyclosporine microemulsion for primary immunosuppression in solid organ transplants and bone marrow transplantation, with better outcomes in patient and graft survival, rejection rates, and cost-effectiveness. The choice of regimen depends on drug efficacy, tolerability, interactions, and cost.

Tacrolimus has been developed to prevent organ rejection in adult and pediatric patients receiving an allogeneic transplant of the liver, kidney, heart, or lung.

Tacrolimus is available in the form of capsules, injections, oral suspensions, and ointments. Tacrolimus Capsule is available in doses 0.5mg, 1mg, and 5mg. your healthcare provider will administer Tacrolimus Injection (5mg/ml) if you are unable to tolerate an oral capsule or suspension. Your healthcare provider will prescribe the accurate dose based on the organ transplanted, body weight, and health condition. Patients diagnosed with cystic fibrosis might require higher doses.

Side effects are unwanted symptoms caused by medicines. Although all drugs can cause side effects, not everyone experiences them.

Common side effects of Tacrolimus include:

• Hypertension
• Diabetes mellitus
• Fever
• Tremor
• High blood glucose levels
• Leukopenia (low white blood cell count)
• Infection
• Anemia
• Urinary tract infection
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Stomach pain
• Insomnia
• Paresthesia (tingling or numbness)
• Nausea

Serious side effects of Tacrolimus include:

• CMV infection (Cytomegalovirus)
• Bronchitis
• Abnormal kidney function
• Pericardial effusion (fluid around the heart)
• High blood levels of cholesterol, potassium, and magnesium

Allergic reactions to report immediately:

• Excessive sweating
• Chest pain
• Tremors

• Severe infection: Do not use during active infection; monitor patients closely for signs of infection during treatment.
• Skin conditions: Avoid applying on open wounds or broken skin to reduce the risk of adverse reactions.
• Overdose: Use to treat overdose situations and monitor drug levels for appropriate intervention.
• Allergic reactions: May cause severe allergic reactions, including swelling, rash, and difficulty breathing; monitor closely during administration.
• Hypersensitivity: Do not use if allergic to the drug or any of its components.

Tacrolimus 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 Tacrolimus 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.

Tacrolimus 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. Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual side effects or have concerns about your treatment.

1. Astellas Pharma, [Revised on Aug 2021] [Accessed on 5th Sep 2022], https://www.astellas.com/us/system/files/prograf_7.pdf

2. Alan M. Krensky, Jamil R. Azzi, and David A. Hafler, Goodman & Gilman’s Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Immunosuppressants and Tolerogens, 13th Edition, 2018, 637-653.

3. Scott LJ, McKeage K, Keam SJ, Plosker GL. Tacrolimus: a further update of its use in the management of organ transplantation.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12790696/

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice, it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.