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Brand names:
Prograf®
Other names:
FK506
Often used for:
Graft vs. host disease (GVHD) after stem cell transplantation, Severe aplastic anemia
Tacrolimus is a medicine that suppresses the immune system (immunosuppressant). It is used to decrease the body’s natural immune system and prevent or treat GVHD in hematopoietic cell transplant.
Tacrolimus is broken down by certain enzymes in the body. A genetic test may be performed to see how well a patient’s enzymes function. Patients who break down tacrolimus faster than normal may receive a higher dose of the medicine.
Patients will have regular blood draws to check the amount of tacrolimus, potassium, and magnesium levels in the blood and to monitor kidney and liver function. Tacrolimus doses may change based on levels in the blood.
May be taken as a capsule by mouth
May be taken as a liquid by mouth
May be given as a liquid into a vein by IV
May be applied on the skin
Not all patients who take tacrolimus will experience these side effects. Common side effects are in bold, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.
Some patients may experience long-term or late effects of treatment that may continue or develop months or years after treatment ends. Possible late effects due to tacrolimus include:
Be sure to discuss these and other recommendations with your doctor or pharmacist.