|
|
Cyclosporine
Cyclosporine is a drug that was
originally developed to prevent organ
rejection in people who had undergone
transplants. Today, it is used in the
treatment of a number of inflammatory
diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis,
psoriasis, and lupus.
Cyclosporine is a powerful drug. It can
have a number of effects on the body,
including high blood pressure and
kidney and liver problems. As a result,
it is important that you understand how
it is used to treat your lupus. You will
need to work closely with your doctor
and nurse to make sure that the amount
of the drug you are taking gives you
the benefits you need with as few side
effects as possible.
Instructions
The brand name of your cyclosporine is
___________________________________ .
The strength or dose of the cyclosporine ordered for you is ___________.
Take the cyclosporine ________________
time(s) per day.
The best time(s) to take your
cyclosporine ________________________
Additional instructions: ______________
___________________________________ .
|
|
Possible Side Effects
These include acne or oily skin;
bleeding, tender, or enlarged gums;
frequent need to urinate; headaches;
high blood pressure; increased hair
growth; kidney problems; leg cramps;
nausea; trembling and shaking of
hands.
Tell your nurse or doctor right away if
you have any side effects.
Precautions
Do not take more than the
recommended dose.
Avoid exposure to infections. Stay
away from crowds and people
known to have colds, the flu, or
other infections. Let your doctor
or nurse know if you experience
symptoms of infection.
Tell any nurse, doctor, or dentist
who is taking care of you that you
are taking cyclosporine for your
lupus.
WARNING!
Do not eat grapefruit or drink
grapefruit juice while taking
this medication. Either can
increase your risk of side effects
by increasing the amount of
cyclosporine in your body.
|
|
Source: National Institutes of Health, U.S.Dept of Health and Human Services
|
|
|
|