Prograf (Tacrolimus) Canada
Description
Prograf represents the immunosuppressive drugs class. This tool is used in the period after undergoing a liver or kidney transplant and heart disease. Prograf has a suppressive effect against cytotoxic lymphocytes capable to provoke rejection of transplanted organs. Tacrolimus is the core Prograf ingredient, magnesium stearate, lactose, cellulose, castor oil and anhydrous alcohol are the additional components. The drug is available in concentrate form in ampoules, 1 ml in each. In addition, the tool is also available in 5-mg capsules packedin blisters.
Prograf pharmacological action
Prograf affects transplanted organs at the molecular level while preventing the transcription of lymphokine genes. The active ingredient of Tacrolimus helps to suppress cytotoxic lymphocytes, reduces the action of T-cells and as well as the rate of formation of lymphokines. This tool is quite effective as a part of immunosuppressive therapy, during which the graft is rejected in less cases, unlike in cyclosporin treatment.
The preparation is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and is completely distributed in the graft within three to four days. The process of distribution of active ingredients of the drug is biphasic type. Simultaneously, the active ingredient forms in the blood and interacts with erythrocytes.
In adult patients, the drug half-life equals 40-45 hours. It should be noted that the remedy is metabolized to form eight semi-active metabolites. Prograf is excreted with faeces and urine, and eliminated through the bile.
Prograf indications for use
The preparation is indicated for the prevention and treatment of rejection of transplanted organs such as kidney, liver and heart. The drug is also used in the process of standard immunosuppressive therapy.
Prograf administration
According to the instructions Prograf, the tool in the form of capsules is prescribed to be taken twice a day in a dosage of 0.5mg or 1g. The necessary dosage can be adjusted by the treating physician according to the diagnostic indication. In order to maximize the successful assimilation of the drug it is recommended to take the capsules on an empty stomach.
Prograf in the form of a concentrate is recommended to be diluted in 5% dextrose or saline. In this case, Prograf must be administered slowly within several minutes. After intravenous administration of the drug the vial must be discarded even if it remains in a certain amount of solution.
In the application of Prograf in women during pregnancy, the drug may penetrate the placenta. Application of this tool during breastfeeding involves penetration of the drug in breast milk. The drug must be also taken in the complex therapy to prevent the development of pathologies of transplanted organs and tumors. In the application of Prograf the blood pressure should be monitored on a constant basis, the patient is highly recommended to take blood tests and an electrocardiogram; it may also need to monitor the level of electrolytes and proteins in blood plasma, as well as to monitor the functioning of the urinary system.
Prograf contraindications
The instructions Prograf note that the drug should not be used by patients suffering individual hypersensitivity and intolerance of one or more components are part of the funds. Furthermore, Prograf should not be used by women during pregnancy and breastfeeding periods, as well as in children. The tool must be used by the patients carefully in the elderly and people suffering from impaired functioning of the kidneys and liver.