Tacrolimus is a potent immunosuppressant used for treating autoimmune disease and organ transplantation. It's also sold under the brand names Prograf or Advagraf. Tacrolimus works by suppressing your immune system, preventing the attack of transplanted tissue or organs. Also,
It Is
used for conditions like rheumatoid, Crohn's, psoriasis and ulcerative colitis. Tacrolimus can be prescribed with corticosteroids or other drugs such as
Azathioprine
. Both oral and topical forms of the drug are available. Topical tacrolimus can be applied to the skin directly.
Tacrolimus: Uses and Benefits
Tacrolimus is effective in preventing organ rejection after an organ transplant. Tacrolimus significantly lowers mortality and graft failure in kidney transplant patients. The drug has been shown to improve the long-term survival of grafts and reduce acute rejection. Tacrolimus has also been tested for its efficacy in treating skin conditions such as vitiligo and psoriasis, in addition to organ transplantation. Researchers have discovered that tacrolimus has a higher effectiveness than other treatments, especially when combined with corticosteroids.
Tacrolimus: Benefits and Side Effects
Researchers have discovered that patients receiving organ transplants may benefit from tacrolimus. The following are some of the benefits:
Reduction in the risk of rejection organs
Long-term survival of grafts is improved
Risk of acute rejection reduced
Reduction of risk of infection
Reduction in the risk of chronic rejection
Tarolimus, in addition to being used in organ transplantation has also been tested for its efficacy in treating skin conditions such as psoriasis, vitiligo and atopic dermtitis. Researchers have discovered that tacrolimus has a higher effectiveness than other treatments, especially when combined with corticosteroids.
Tacrolimus Side Effects
Tacrolimus may cause nausea, vomiting diarrhea, abdominal pain headache dizziness blurred vision tremor increased appetite
Insomnia
Anxiety
depression. Changes in cholesterol, blood pressure and heart rate can be caused by tacrolimus. Tacrolimus can increase your risk for certain cancers, such as skin cancer, leukemia, and lymphoma.
Tacrolimus: Experts' Opinions
Experts in medicine agree that tacrolimus can be used to prevent organ rejection after a transplant. They caution, however, that tacrolimus should only be taken under the guidance of a physician due to its potential serious side effects. Tacrolimus has also been tested for its efficacy in treating skin conditions such as atopic dermitis, vitiligo and psoriasis. Tarolimus has been found to be an effective treatment in treating these skin conditions.
What is Tacrolimus and How Do I Get Started?
Tacrolimus can be prescribed with other drugs, including corticosteroids or mycophenolate-mofetil. The frequency and dosage of tacrolimus will depend on each patient's medical needs. Follow your doctor's advice and only take tacrolimus as directed. Tacrolimus comes in oral and topically applied formulations. Tacrolimus can have side effects. Patients are advised to be alert and consult a doctor if any symptoms seem severe. Patients should also avoid getting pregnant or nursing while on tacrolimus as this can lead to birth defects and harm their baby.
Conclusion
Tacrolimus, an immunosuppressant, is used for treating dermatological disorders such as vitiligo and psoriasis, or to prevent rejection of organs in transplant patients. Experts generally agree that tacrolimus can be an effective treatment and is well tolerated. Patients should know about the side effects that tacrolimus can cause and contact their doctor if any symptoms are severe or alarming. Follow your doctor's directions and make sure you take the medication exactly as directed..