What it means
A calcineurin inhibitor that blocks the T cells that would attack a transplanted kidney, liver or heart. It is also used for severe psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis, and as eye drops for dry eye. Its main problems are kidney damage, high blood pressure, a higher risk of infection and some cancers, swollen gums and extra hair growth. Blood levels are checked to keep the dose in a safe range.
For the nurse
Teach the client to take it at the same times every day, never to stop it on their own, and to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, which raise the drug level. The different brands are not interchangeable without the prescriber. Watch blood pressure and kidney tests, teach good mouth care, and report fever or other signs of infection.
At a glance
| Drug class | immunosuppressant (calcineurin inhibitor) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Sandimmune, Neoral, Gengraf |
| Spanish | ciclosporina |
| Also written | ciclosporin, Sandimmune, Neoral, Gengraf |
Related terms
immune system
The body's defense system of cells, tissues and organs that fights germs and other foreign substances.
azathioprine
An immunosuppressant taken by mouth to prevent transplant rejection and to calm autoimmune diseases.