Sandimmune (Cyclosporine)

Description

Indications

Cyclosporine is employed to prevent the rejection of transplanted organs, such as the liver, kidney, or heart. Typically, it is used in conjunction with other medications to facilitate the proper functioning of the newly transplanted organ. Cyclosporine is classified as an immunosuppressant medication, functioning by reducing the activity of the immune system to enable your body to embrace the new organ as if it were a natural part of your own body.

Uses and Dosage

Follow your doctor’s instructions and take this medication orally, typically once daily. You can choose to take it with or without food, but it’s important to maintain consistency – stick to one method for each dose.

The prescribed dosage is determined based on your weight, medical condition, results of laboratory tests, and how you respond to treatment.

Accurately measure the dose using the provided medicine syringe; avoid using a household spoon, as it may not provide the correct dose. To improve the taste, you can mix the measured dose with a glass of milk, chocolate milk, or room-temperature orange juice. It’s essential not to frequently switch the type of liquid used. Use a glass cup (not plastic) and consume the entire mixture promptly. Do not prepare this mixture in advance. To ensure you’ve taken all the medication, rinse the glass with additional liquid, mix, and drink. If you have any questions, consult your pharmacist.

After using the syringe, dry the exterior; refrain from rinsing it with water. If cleaning is necessary, ensure it’s completely dry before its next use.

While using this medication, avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice unless your doctor or pharmacist deems it safe. Grapefruit can heighten the risk of side effects with this medicine. For further details, consult your healthcare provider.

To maximize the benefits of this medication, take it consistently at the same time each day.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• headache
• diarrhea
• heartburn
• gas
• increased hair growth on the face, arms, or back
• growth of extra tissue on the gums
• acne
• flushing
• uncontrollable shaking of a part of your body
• burning or tingling in the hands, arms, feet, or legs
• muscle or joint pain
• cramps
• pain or pressure in the face
• ear problems
• breast enlargement in men
• depression
• difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• unusual bleeding or bruising
• pale skin
• yellowing of the skin or eyes
• seizures
• loss of consciousness
• changes in behavior or mood
• difficulty controlling body movements
• changes in vision
• confusion
• rash
• purple blotches on the skin
• swelling of the hands, arms, feet, ankles, or lower legs

Caution

Prior to commencing cyclosporine treatment, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, whether related to cyclosporine or other substances. This product might contain inactive components capable of triggering allergic reactions or other complications.

Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication, especially if you have kidney disease, liver disease, high blood pressure, a history of cancer, unexplained skin lesions, a history of radiation treatment, imbalances in minerals like low magnesium or high potassium, recent or ongoing infections, or elevated cholesterol/triglyceride levels.

This medication may cause dizziness. Alcohol or marijuana can intensify this dizziness. Refrain from activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you can do so safely.

This medication may contain alcohol. Use caution if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have liver disease, alcohol dependence, or any other condition that necessitates restricting or avoiding alcohol in your diet.

Cyclosporine may increase your susceptibility to infections or exacerbate existing infections. Avoid contact with individuals with contagious infections that can easily spread, such as chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, or the flu. Notify your doctor if you’ve been exposed to an infection or for further information.

Inform your healthcare professional about your use of cyclosporine before receiving any immunizations or vaccinations. Avoid contact with individuals who have recently received live vaccines, such as the nasal flu vaccine.

This medication may heighten your risk of developing skin cancer. Limit sun exposure, avoid tanning beds and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors. Your doctor may advise you to avoid phototherapy while using this product; consult your doctor for specifics.

This product may increase your potassium levels. Prior to using potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Older adults may face a greater risk of kidney problems or high blood pressure when using this medication.

During pregnancy, use this medication only when it is unequivocally necessary. It may pose risks to the unborn baby, potentially causing preterm birth or low birth weight. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.

This medication passes into breast milk. Due to potential risks to the infant, it is not recommended to breastfeed while using this drug. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Sandimmune is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Sandimmune capsule:
  • 25mg
  • 100mg

FAQ

What foods should you avoid when taking Sandimmune?

Avoid taking this medication with grapefruit, pineapple, or papaya juice.

Is Sandimmune a steroid?

No, Sandimmune isn’t a corticosteroid. Instead, it belongs in a drug class called calcineurin inhibitors.

Resources

1. https://www.chp.edu/our-services/transplant/liver/education/medications/cyclosporine-sandimmune-neoral#:~:text=Capsules%20should%20be%20swallowed%20whole,the%20same%20time%20each%20day
2. https://www.goodrx.com/cyclosporine/what-is#faqs
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/cyclosporine-oral-route/description/drg-20075815
4. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7932-5108/sandimmune-oral/cyclosporine-solution-oral/details
5. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601207.html
6. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/sandimmune.html