Cyclosporine

Cyclosporine is a medically-used immunosuppressant drug, prescribed for the prevention of organ rejection in patients who have had a transplant. It is commonly used alongside basiliximab for the prevention of Organ transplant rejection in adults.

Uses For

Cyclosporine is used to reduce the chance of organ transplant rejection in people who have undergone a transplant operation. Additionally, it may be prescribed for conditions such as severe rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis.

Brand Name	Cyclosporine
Type
Weight
Generic	Cyclosporine
Manufacturer
Available in	English বাংলা

Mechanism of Action

Cyclosporine acts by inhibiting the transcription of inflammatory cytokines and suppressing the activity of T-cells. In turn, this suppresses the activity of the immune system and prevents it from attacking the transplanted organ.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

The effects of cyclosporine can be seen within hours after it is taken. Its effects on preventing organ rejection can typically take anywhere from days to months and an organ transplant can take up to two years.

Absorption

Cyclosporine is absorbed rapidly after oral administration, with peak levels occurring in approximately one hour. It has a bioavailability of up to 99.6%.

Route of Elimination

Cyclosporine is mainly eliminated through urinary excretion, with 20-60% eliminated unchanged in the urine. The remainder undergoes hepatic biotransformation and is eliminated in bile as metabolites.

Dosage

The dosage of cyclosporine varies depending on the disease being treated and the patient's weight. The dosage for the prevention of organ transplant rejection typically ranges from 1000 mg/day to 4000 mg/day. The dose should be adjusted based on the patient's response to the medication.

Administration

Cyclosporine is available in different forms, including tablets, capsules, ointment, and an oral solution. It is typically taken two to four times a day, with or without food.

Side Effects

Common side effects with cyclosporine include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headache, fatigue, dizziness, increased blood pressure, fluid retention, rash, and changes in hair color. Some side effects may be serious and should be reported to a doctor promptly.

Toxicity

High doses of cyclosporine can be toxic. Symptoms of toxicity can include a decrease in kidney function, as well as changes in liver function tests.

Precautions

Cyclosporine should be used with caution in patients with kidney or liver disease, as well as in patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is important to monitor blood pressure, kidney and liver function regularly in people taking this medication.

Interaction

Cyclosporine can interact with a variety of medications, including antifungals, certain antibiotics, antidepressants, antacids, and other immunosuppressants, among others. In addition, consuming grapefruit and grapefruit juice can also interfere with this medication.

Disease Interaction

Cyclosporine can interact with certain medical conditions, such as kidney or liver disease, diabetes, uncontrolled high blood pressure, and congestive heart failure. In addition, people with certain mental health issues such as depression and anxiety may experience worsened symptoms while taking this medication.

Drug Interaction

Cyclosporine can interact with other medications, including antifungals, antibiotics, antidepressants, antacids, and immunosuppressants, among others. It is important to tell your doctor about all of the medications you are taking, as this may lead to dangerous side effects or reduce the effectiveness of the medication.

Food Interactions

It is important to tell your doctor or pharmacist about any food or drink you are consuming, as some may interact with cyclosporine. Eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice can interfere with this medication and increase your risk of side effects.

Pregnancy Use

Cyclosporine should not be used during pregnancy as it can cause harm to a developing baby. Women should use effective contraception during treatment and for one month after treatment is stopped.

Lactation Use

Cyclosporine is contraindicated in nursing mothers because its active metabolites can be transferred through breastmilk and cause serious illness in infants.

Acute Overdose

An acute overdose of cyclosporine is potentially serious and can lead to serious side effects such as vomiting, nausea, increased blood pressure, renal failure, and liver toxicity. In cases of an overdose, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Contraindication

Cyclosporine is contraindicated in people with known hypersensitivity to the medication, as well as in those with active infections or severe heart, liver or kidney disease, and in nursing mothers.

Use Directions

Cyclosporine should be taken exactly as directed by the doctor. The dosage should be adjusted based on the patient's response to the medication and blood tests should be performed regularly to monitor the levels of the medication.

Storage Conditions

Cyclosporine should be stored at room temperature away from heat and moisture. It should be kept away from pets and children and should not be exposed to light for long periods of time.