Description

Prograf 1mg 50 Capsules (Tacrolimus) – Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Storage

Prograf (tacrolimus) is a powerful immunosuppressant medication used to prevent organ rejection in patients who have undergone a kidney, liver, heart, or lung transplant. By suppressing the immune response, Prograf helps the body accept a transplanted organ and reduces the risk of rejection.

What is Prograf 1mg Used For?

• Prevents organ rejection after kidney transplant

• Prevents organ rejection after liver transplant

• Prevents organ rejection after heart transplant

• Prevents organ rejection after lung transplant

Prograf is an essential medication prescribed by transplant specialists and should only be taken under strict medical supervision.

Prograf 1mg Dosage and Administration

• Initial Adult Dosage: 0.2–0.3 mg/kg/day, divided into two doses every 12 hours

• Timing:

  • For liver, heart, or lung transplants – first dose no sooner than 6 hours after surgery

  • For kidney transplants – first dose within 24 hours, once kidney function has recovered

• Therapeutic Monitoring: Blood tests are required to maintain the correct tacrolimus levels

Mechanism of Action – How Prograf Works

• Tacrolimus binds to the FKBP-12 protein inside cells

• The tacrolimus-FKBP12 complex blocks the enzyme calcineurin

• This prevents activation of T-lymphocytes, reducing the immune attack on transplanted organs

• Result: Suppressed immune response, preventing rejection

Common Side Effects of Prograf

Like all immunosuppressants, Prograf may cause side effects. These can include:

• Headache and tremors

• Insomnia and anxiety

• High blood pressure (hypertension)

• Diabetes and high blood sugar

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

• Increased risk of infections and certain cancers

Warnings & Precautions

• Use with caution in patients with kidney or liver impairment

• Avoid excessive sun exposure – Prograf may increase risk of skin cancer

• May cause neurological disturbances (dizziness, vision problems) – avoid driving if affected

• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Not recommended; risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and harm to newborn

• Do not use if allergic to tacrolimus or any capsule ingredient

Drug & Food Interactions

Prograf can interact with several drugs and foods:

• Avoid grapefruit & grapefruit juice – increases drug concentration

• May interact with:

  • Other immunosuppressants

  • Anti-HIV drugs

  • Antifungals & antibiotics

  • Seizure medications
    Always inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Storage Guidelines

• Store Prograf capsules in a cool, dry place below 25°C

• Keep away from heat, moisture, and light

• Always store in original packaging

• Keep out of reach of children and pets

Reviews & Patient Experience

Currently, there are no specific customer reviews available for Prograf 1mg 50-count capsules. However, patients and doctors consider it a critical medication for transplant success, provided it is taken exactly as prescribed.

Key Takeaways

• Prograf 1mg (tacrolimus) is a trusted immunosuppressant for organ transplant patients

• Works by inhibiting T-cell activation to prevent rejection

• Requires strict dosage monitoring and regular blood tests

• May cause side effects, but benefits outweigh risks in transplant patients

• Must be stored properly to maintain effectiveness