Description

Prograf 0.5mg Capsules (Tacrolimus) – Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Safety Guide

Prograf 0.5mg Capsules contain tacrolimus, a powerful immunosuppressant medication used to prevent organ rejection in kidney, liver, and heart transplant patients. It works by lowering the activity of the immune system, helping the body accept the transplanted organ.

Key Benefits of Prograf 0.5mg

• Prevents organ rejection after transplant surgery.

• Improves long-term survival rates for kidney, liver, and heart transplant patients.

• Helps maintain stable organ function under close medical supervision.

Prograf 0.5mg Dosage Guidelines

• Adults (Kidney/Liver/Heart Transplant): 0.1–0.15 mg/kg/day, divided into two doses.

• Pediatric Liver Transplant: 0.15–0.20 mg/kg/day.

• Maintenance Dose: Adjusted based on blood trough levels and patient response.

💊 Always take Prograf on an empty stomach – 1 hour before or 2–3 hours after meals.

How Prograf 0.5mg Works (Mechanism of Action)

Prograf (tacrolimus) binds to FKBP-12 protein in T-cells and blocks the enzyme calcineurin, which is essential for T-cell activation. By suppressing T-lymphocyte activation and reducing cytokine production, Prograf prevents the immune system from attacking the transplanted organ.

Ingredients in Prograf 0.5mg Capsules

• Active Ingredient: Tacrolimus monohydrate 0.5mg.

• Inactive Ingredients: Lactose monohydrate, hypromellose, croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate, gelatin, titanium dioxide, ferric oxide, and trace soya lecithin (printing ink).

Storage Instructions

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.

• Capsules are packed with a desiccant (do not swallow).

Common Side Effects of Prograf 0.5mg

• Headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea

• Swelling, hair loss, itching

• High blood pressure, high blood sugar, anemia

• Cough, infections

Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Help Immediately)

• Irregular heartbeat

• Seizures or confusion

• Liver injury or kidney failure

• GI bleeding

• Lung infections

Safety Warnings & Precautions

• Pregnancy: May harm the fetus; only use if clearly needed.

• Breastfeeding: Not recommended (passes into breast milk).

• Sun Exposure: Use sunscreen and protective clothing (risk of skin cancer).

• Driving: Avoid operating machinery if experiencing dizziness or vision issues.

• Food Interactions: Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice.

• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medicines (especially antivirals, diuretics, or other immunosuppressants).

• Vaccinations: Get medical advice before receiving any vaccines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What if I miss a dose of Prograf 0.5mg?
👉 Take it as soon as possible. If it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double dose.

Q: Can I stop taking Prograf 0.5mg suddenly?
👉 No. Stopping without medical advice may increase the risk of organ rejection.

Q: How long do I need to take Prograf?
👉 Prograf is usually a lifelong treatment for transplant patients, under strict monitoring.

Patient & Doctor Reviews

• Patients report improved transplant outcomes and reduced rejection rates.

• Doctors highlight Prograf’s proven efficacy but stress the need for regular blood monitoring to prevent toxicity.