Drug Notes

Tacrolimus (By injection)

Tacrolimus (ta-KROE-li-mus)

Prevents your body from rejecting an organ after transplant.

Brand Name(s):

Prograf

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.
• A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

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

• There are many drugs that can interact with tacrolimus. Make sure your doctor knows about all other medicines you are using.
• Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while you are using this medicine.
• This medicine may interfere with vaccines. Ask your doctor before you get a flu shot or any other vaccines.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, heart disease, heart rhythm problems, high blood pressure, or any type of infection.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Increased risk of cancer, including skin cancer or lymphoma
  • Increased risk of infection
  • Kidney or nervous system problems
  • Diabetes
  • Anemia (low red blood cell counts)
  • High potassium levels in your blood
  • Heart problems, including changes in heart rhythm or an enlarged heart
  • Gastrointestinal perforation (hole in your stomach or bowels)
• This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Change in how much or how often you urinate, painful urination, blood in the urine
• Chest pain, lightheadedness, fainting
• Confusion, weakness, uneven heartbeat, trouble breathing, numbness in your hands, feet, or lips
• Fast, slow, or pounding heartbeat
• Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, body aches
• Headache, vision changes, seizures, tingling or numbness
• Increased thirst or hunger
• Rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet
• Skin changes or growths
• Sudden and severe stomach pain
• Swollen glands in your armpits or groin
• Tremors, muscle twitching, unsteadiness
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, upset stomach
• Trouble sleeping

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017