Tacrolimus (Injection)

Tacrolimus (Injection)

Tacrolimus (ta-KROE-li-mus)

Keeps your body from rejecting an organ transplant, such as a kidney or liver.

Brand Name(s):

Prograf
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to tacrolimus or castor oil.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins. You will receive the medicine continuously until you are able to take the capsule form of tacrolimus. The needle will have to remain in place around the clock while you are receiving the IV form of tacrolimus.
  
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine. It may also be given by a home health caregiver. You will be kept under observation for about 30 minutes after you start to receive this medicine, especially if you are getting it for the first time.
  
• Never share your medicine with anyone.
  

If a dose is missed::

• This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.
  

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• If you store this medicine at home, keep it in a cool, dry place. Protect from heat and direct light.
  
• Keep all medicine away from children.
  

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking cyclosporine (Neoralreg;, Sandimmunereg;), St. John's wort, antibiotics, cancer medicines, diuretics or "water pills" (such as Aldactazidereg;, Aldactonereg;, Dyazidereg;, Maxzidereg;, Midamorreg;, Modureticreg;), heart or blood pressure medicine (such as verapamil, Adalatreg;, Calanreg;, Cardizemreg;, Lotrelreg;, Plendilreg;, Procardiareg;, Tiazacreg;), or medicine for seizures (such as Dilantinreg;, Luminalreg;, Tegretolreg;). There are many other medicines that may interact with tacrolimus. Tell your doctor about ALL other medicines you are using.