Cyclosporine (By Mouth)

Cyclosporine (SYE-kloe-spor-een)

Keeps your body from rejecting its transplanted organ. Also treats rheumatoid arthritis and other problems.

Brand Name(s):

Neoral, Gengraf, Sandimmune
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

Make sure your doctor knows if you have had an allergic reaction to cyclosporine before you use this medicine.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Liquid

• Take this medicine as your doctor ordered. Take your medicine at the same time every day with food.
• To measure the oral liquid, use the dosage syringe provided with the medicine.
• Mix the oral liquid in a drinking glass, not a plastic cup. You can mix it with milk or orange juice to make it taste better. Don't mix it with very cold or hot drinks.
• Stir well, and drink your medicine right away. Rinse the glass with more milk, juice, or water and drink that too, so you get all of the medicine.

If a dose is missed:

• Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
• Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Keep the medicine in the original container. Store at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not keep this medicine in the refrigerator or freezer.
• Once the bottle of medicine is opened, it is good for 2 months. After that, throw it away.
• 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.

• Talk to your doctor before receiving any vaccines.
• Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while taking this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor before taking if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have kidney problems, or any other medical problems.
• You should not use more of this medicine or take it more often than your doctor ordered.
• THIS MEDICINE SHOULD NOT BE SUDDENLY STOPPED.
• You may be more likely to have infections while taking cyclosporine. Tell your doctor if you have symptoms of infection such as fever or chills.
• This medicine may cause swelling or bleeding of gums; brush and floss your teeth and see your dentist regularly.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

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

• Seizures
• Chest pain, irregular heartbeat
• Severe tremors
• Fever
• Severe diarrhea

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

• Stomach upset
• Headache
• Hair growth
• Mild tremors
• Nausea and vomiting
• Muscle pain
• Loss of appetite
• Swollen and bleeding gums

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