Tacrolimus

Advagraf Capsule

Advagraf is an immunosuppressant containing tacrolimus, primarily used against organ rejection in patients with kidney, liver, or heart transplants. Available in various strengths, it is taken twice daily on an empty stomach to maintain stable blood levels. Dosage is tailored to individual needs and adjusted based on weight and medical condition. Patients must adhere to safety guidelines including regular monitoring of blood levels, avoiding live vaccines, and protecting against sun exposure. Side effects can include tremors, high blood pressure, and kidney issues, underscoring the need for close medical supervision.

Product Overview

Advagraf is a specialized medication containing the active ingredient tacrolimus, a potent immunosuppressant used primarily to prevent the rejection of the newly transplanted organ in the patient’s body who has undergone kidney, liver, or heart transplants. This medication is FDA-approved and works by inhibiting the activity of certain immune cells that would otherwise attack the transplanted organ. By suppressing these immune responses, Advagraf significantly reduces the risk of organ rejection, helping patients maintain the health and function of their new organs.

Advagraf capsules come in several strengths, including 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 3 mg, & 5 mg, allowing for flexible dosing tailored to the patient’s needs. The capsules should be swallowed whole with water and are typically taken twice daily on an empty stomach to ensure consistent absorption. It is suitable for adult and pediatric patients, with dosage adjustments based on body weight and medical condition. The mechanism of Advagraf involves the inhibition of calcineurin, a protein important for T-cell activation, which is crucial for maintaining the body’s immune defense.

Patients taking Advagraf may experience side effects such as tremors, headaches, high blood pressure, and possible kidney issues. It’s crucial to follow prescribed precautions such as regularly monitoring blood levels and avoiding live vaccines. If a dose is missed, the next dose should be taken at the scheduled time without doubling it. In case of an overdose, immediate medical attention is necessary. Advagraf should be stored below 25 degrees Celsius in a dry place. As recommended by healthcare professionals, patients are advised to wear sunscreen & protective clothing to guard against photosensitivity reactions.

What Are the Uses of Advagraf? 

Advagraf capsule is used to: 

• Prevent the rejection of the newly transplanted organs in patients who have gone through kidney, liver, or heart transplantation.

What Are the Forms & Strengths of Advagraf?

Advagraf comes in prolonged-release hard capsules with the following dosage forms and strengths:

0.5 mg: Each capsule contains 0.5 mg of tacrolimus.

1 mg: Each capsule contains 1 mg of tacrolimus.

3 mg: Each capsule contains 3 mg of tacrolimus.

5 mg: Each capsule contains 5 mg of tacrolimus.

What Is the Recommended Dosage of Advagraf?

The recommended dosage for Advagraf 3 mg varies significantly based on factors such as the patient’s weight, the condition being treated, and other medications you may be using. The initial dose is usually calculated based on the body weight of the patient, with subsequent adjustments made according to measured blood trough levels and clinical response. 

Adult Kidney Transplant Patients

• Initial dose: 0.1-0.2 mg/kg/day administered in two divided doses, usually started within 24 hours of the transplant.
• The dose is adjusted based on clinical assessments and blood level monitoring to minimize side effects while preventing organ rejection.

Adult Liver Transplant Patients

• Initial dose: 0.1-0.15 mg/kg/day administered in two divided doses, starting 12-18 hours after the liver transplant.
• Dosage adjustments are based on response and blood tacrolimus levels.

Adult Heart Transplant Patients

• Initial dose: 0.075 mg/kg/day administered in two divided doses, typically starting within 5 days of the transplant.
• Adjustments are made based on clinical response and drug-level monitoring.

Pediatric Patients

• The dosing in pediatric patients follows a similar framework as in adults but is often adjusted more frequently due to variations in drug metabolism and excretion in children.
• Dose adjustments are strictly based on body weight, clinical condition, and blood drug levels.

Patients with Renal Impairment

• Lower starting doses and careful monitoring are essential due to the increased risk of nephrotoxicity.
• Dosage adjustments should be made based on renal function and blood tacrolimus levels.

Patients with Hepatic Impairment

• Patients with liver dysfunction may require lower doses due to decreased drug clearance.
• Monitoring liver function and tacrolimus blood levels is necessary to adjust the dose appropriately.

[Note: Remember these recommendations may vary depending on person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]

How to Use Advagraf? 

Before using this medication, you should carefully read and understand the directions in the patient information leaflet and, if available, the medication guide. You should ask your physician or healthcare provider if you have difficulty understanding any part of this leaflet or if you have any queries regarding the medication use. You can also refer to the instructions given below. 

• Take Advagraf 0.5 mg exactly as your doctor prescribes, typically twice daily at 12-hour intervals. It’s important to maintain a consistent schedule to keep blood levels stable.
• Advagraf capsules should be swallowed withtout breaking it into half with a glass of water and should not be chewed or crushed.
• Taking Advagraf on an empty stomach in the morning, probably or at least an hour before or 2 to 3 hours after you had a meal, is recommended to enhance absorption.
• Regular monitoring by your healthcare provider is required to adjust the dose as per your response to treatment and any side effects.
• Blood tests are frequently necessary to check the tacrolimus levels in your body to ensure they remain within a therapeutic range.
• Try to take Advagraf at the same time every day to maintain an even level of medication in your blood.

[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]

How Does Advagraf Work?

Advagraf, containing the active ingredient tacrolimus, is an immunosuppressant medication used primarily to prevent organ rejection in patients who have undergone a kidney, liver, or heart transplant. It works by blocking the action of calcineurin, a crucial protein responsible for activating T-cells, which are integral to the body’s immune system response. By suppressing these immune cells, Advagraf 3 mg capsule reduces the body’s natural defense mechanism against what it perceives as foreign tissues, such as a transplanted organ. This action helps to prevent the immune system from attacking the newly transplanted organ, thus reducing the risk of rejection.

Important Safety Information for Using Advagraf

What Are the Side Effects of Advagraf?

Common Side Effects: Similar to other medications, Advagraf can cause certain side effects in some users. These side effects are usually temporary and disappear on their own without any medical assistance. However, if you are concerned about the risks associated with its use, you should consult your doctor before using it and discuss with them in detail the ways to prevent and manage them. Some of the most common side effects of this medication are as follows:  

• Tremor (shaking): This is a common side effect of tacrolimus, the active ingredient in Advagraf, which can affect the arms, hands, voice, tongue, and lower limbs. 

• Headache: Patients using this medication may experience headaches, which are usually temporary and likely to disappear within a few days. However, if they persist or become bothersome, they should let their healthcare provider know. 

• Nausea (feeling sick): This medication can affect the digestive system and irritate the lining of the stomach, thus making you feel sick. You should tell your doctor if the feeling persists or becomes serious. 

• Diarrhea: Due to the gastrointestinal effects of Advagraf, patients can have this side effect while using it. It can disrupt the normal balance in the gut and irritate the intestines lining. You should stay hydrated and consume bland food to prevent dehydration while using this medication. 

• Kidney problems: Advagraf can cause or worsen existing kidney problems, potentially leading to increased creatinine levels and decreased kidney function. While receiving treatment with this medication, you should regularly monitor your kidney function & report any symptoms of kidney problems to your doctor, such as changes in urine output or swelling.  

• Hyperglycemia (raised blood glucose levels): Advagraf can cause insulin resistance and alter insulin secretion, leading to elevated levels of blood sugar in the body. If you already have diabetes or have risk factors, you should monitor your blood sugar levels at regular intervals & share the reports with your doctor. 

• Diabetes: This medication can cause post-transplant insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. This can happen because it affects how the body processes glucose, potentially causing high levels of blood glucose in the body. You should regular monitor your blood sugar levels on a regular basis and share the report with your doctor. 

• Hyperkalemia (raised blood potassium levels): Due to Advagraf’s impact on kidney function and potassium regulation, patients may experience high potassium levels in the blood. Symptoms of hyperkalemia can include muscle weakness, fatigue, and irregular heartbeats. You should undergo regular tests for potassium levels while using this medication if your doctor recommends it. 

• Hypertension (high blood pressure): Due to Advagraf’s effect on the cardiovascular system, you can experience hypertension, fluid retention, and electrolyte imbalance. You should regularly monitor your blood pressure & report any significant changes to your healthcare provider. 

• Insomnia (difficulty sleeping): This medication can cause changes in brain chemistry that disrupt normal sleep patterns, causing difficulty falling or staying asleep. If you experience persistent insomnia while taking Advagraf, it’s important to discuss this with your healthcare provider for potential management strategies.

Tell your doctor if any of these side effects persist or become bothersome. You should report any new or serious side effects to your doctor at once. It is important to mention that you have been prescribed this medication because your doctor has determined that the benefits of Advagraf outweigh the risks associated with its use. 

Serious Side Effects of Advagraf: In rare cases, Advagraf can cause severe side effects which require immediate medical attention and can become fatal if not treated promptly. If you experience any of the side effects mentioned below, you should call your doctor or 911 immediately. Serious side effects of Advagraf include: 

• Pancreatitis: This serious condition can potentially be fatal. If you have a history of pancreatitis, it’s important to use Advagraf cautiously.
• Antibodies to Advagraf: Some individuals may develop antibodies against Advagraf. Elevated antibody levels can interfere with glycemic control and increase the risks of allergic reactions and reactions at the injection site.
• Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): Advagraf, particularly when used in compliance with other medications, can lead to low blood sugar. Symptoms to watch for include shakiness, sweating, rapid heartbeat, confusion, and dizziness.
• Allergic Reactions: Advagraf may cause severe allergic 
• reactions, such as anaphylaxis, hives, itching, and severe rash.

[Note: Remember, this list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]

Are There Any Warnings for Advagraf? 

There are certain warnings that you should consider while using this product. You should tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any of the excipients of Advagraf or if you have any other allergies. The key points of the warning include: 

• Allergic Reactions: Be aware of possible severe allergic reactions. Symptoms can include hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
• Infection Risk: Advagraf suppresses the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. Monitor for signs of infection, like fever or sore throat.
• Organ Rejection: Although used to prevent organ rejection, monitor for symptoms indicating that the body might reject the transplanted organ.
• Kidney Function: Advagraf can affect kidney function. Thus, routine monitoring of kidney function through blood tests is crucial.
• Neurotoxicity: Be cautious of neurotoxic effects, including tremors, changes in mental status, and other neurological issues.
• Hypertension: Advagraf may increase blood pressure; regular monitoring is necessary, and medication adjustments may be required to manage blood pressure levels.
• Blood Sugar Levels: Monitor blood sugar levels on regular basis as Advagraf can cause changes in glucose metabolism, leading to new-onset diabetes after transplant.

What Are the Advagraf Precautions?

There are certain precautions that you should keep in mind before using Advagraf. You should share your complete medical, personal and family history before using this product and tell them about all medications you use, including all prescription, and non-prescription medicines, over-the-counter drugs, herbs, and vitamin supplements. Precautions include: 

• Inform Your Doctor: Before starting Advagraf, disclose any pre-existing liver problems or a history of diseases that may have affected your liver.
• Monitor Symptoms: Report any strong abdominal pain, which may be accompanied by chills, fever, nausea, or vomiting.
• Address Persistent Diarrhea: If you experience diarrhea for more than a day, consult your doctor.
• Discuss Upcoming Vaccinations: Inform your healthcare provider about any upcoming vaccinations, as certain vaccines may not be compatible with immunosuppressant medications.
• Herbal Interactions: Tell your doctor if you are taking any herbal preparations, especially St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum), as it can interact with Advagraf.
• Routine Testing: During the initial days of treatment, you may need to undergo various routine tests (such as heart function, blood, and urine tests) to determine the most effective dose for your condition.
• Sun Exposure: Minimize your time spent in the sun, wear protective clothing, and apply appropriate sunscreen to reduce the risk of skin reactions.

What Are the Contraindications of Advagraf?

Advagraf is contraindicated for use if:

• You are allergic to tacrolimus or any of its ingredients 
• You have allergies to certain macrolide antibiotics such as erythromycin, clarithromycin, or josamycin.

What If You Miss a Dose of Advagraf?

To get the most from the medication you are using, you should set a time that is most convenient for you and try to take it around that time every day. If you have missed a medication dose, follow the instructions given below. 

• Avoid taking a double dose of Advagraf to compensate for a missed dose. 
• If you forget to take Advagraf Capsules, wait until the next dose and proceed with your regular dosing schedule.
• You can set a reminder on your mobile device to help you remember to take your medication on time. Medication reminders work best for this purpose. 
• If you often forget taking your medication, you should ask your doctor. They will suggest you a method by which you can remember using it. 

[Note: If you have missed a medication dose and are unsure when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]

What Happens If You Take Too Much of Advagraf?

You should not take Advagraf more than the prescribed dose, in large quantities, or more often than prescribed, as it can cause an overdose to occur. An overdose of Advagraf Capsule may cause symptoms such as tremors, headaches, nausea, vomiting, skin reactions, and changes in specific enzyme levels (like creatinine or blood urea nitrogen). If you suspect an overdose of this medication, it’s crucial to see your doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.

[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help right away or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]

How to Store Advagraf?

Proper storage of Advagraf is essential to ensure its safety and accuracy. You can follow the guidelines shared below for the proper storage and disposal of the capsules. 

• Store Advagraf capsules at temperatures below 25 degrees Celsius.
• Keep the medication in a dry place.
• Avoid storing Advagraf capsules in the bathroom.
• Protect the capsules from direct heat, light, and humidity to maintain their efficacy.
• Ensure the medicine packaging is tightly closed to prevent moisture ingress.
• Store Advagraf away from children’s reach and pets.
• Dispose of expired or unused medication properly as per the local regulations.

[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional about the proper disposal of any unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]

What Medications Interact with Advagraf?

Certain medications may interact with Advagraf and reduce its effectiveness or cause unwanted side effects. To prevent these potential drug interactions, you should tell your doctor about all medications you are currently using or plan to use alongside this medication. You should tell your healthcare practitioner or doctor about all prescription and non-prescription medicines, over-the-counter drugs, herbs, and vitamin supplements. This information enables you and your doctor to identify and manage these side effects. Some of the potential interactions include: 

• NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): These can increase the risk of kidney damage when used with tacrolimus.
• Antifungal medications (such as ketoconazole, voriconazolefluconazole, itraconazole): These can increase tacrolimus levels in the blood, potentially leading to toxicity.
• Antibiotics (such as erythromycin, clarithromycin, rifampin): These can also alter the levels of tacrolimus in the blood, requiring close monitoring.
• Anticonvulsants (such as phenytoin, phenobarbital, carbamazepine): These can decrease the blood levels of tacrolimus, reducing its effectiveness.
• Calcium channel blockers: These can increase tacrolimus levels in the blood and may require dosage adjustments.
• Grapefruit and grapefruit juice: These can increase the blood levels of tacrolimus, potentially leading to toxicity. It is generally recommended to avoid grapefruit products while taking Advagraf.
• Protease inhibitors (used in HIV treatment): These can also increase the blood levels of tacrolimus.
• St. John’s Wort: This herbal supplement can significantly decrease tacrolimus levels, reducing its effectiveness.
• Immunosuppressants (such as sirolimus, cyclosporine): Using multiple immunosuppressants can increase the risk of infection and other side effects.
• Live vaccines: While on tacrolimus, the response to vaccines may be diminished, and the risk of infection from live vaccines is increased.

[Note: This is not a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Advagraf Capsules. Make sure to tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, or herbal products you’re taking.]

What Are the Other Advagraf Interactions?

Advagraf, a medication used primarily for preventing organ rejection in transplant patients, interacts with various substances, including herbs, supplements, food items, and beverages. It is important for patients to be aware of suich interactions as they can affect the medication’s effectiveness or cause side effects. Disease interactions with Advagraf include:

• Hepatic impairment
• Renal dysfunction
• Infections
• QT prolongation
• Hypertension
• Hyperkalemia
• Diabetes mellitus
• Neurotoxicity

What Are the Advagraf Alternatives?

Due to potential side effects or specific patient needs, alternatives for Advagraf 0.5 mg may be considered. These alternatives include other immunosuppressive agents that offer similar benefits but with different profiles in terms of efficacy, side effects, and dosing frequency.

• Prograf (tacrolimus)
• Envarsus XR (tacrolimus extended-release)
• Astagraf XL (tacrolimus extended-release)
• Tacni (tacrolimus)
• Tacrograf (tacrolimus)
• Pangraf (tacrolimus)

[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.] 

Advagraf Cost & Coupons

The cost of the medication and the availability of discount coupons can significantly impact a patient’s ability to manage their condition. Many insurance plans cover Advagraf 0.5 mg, but coverage levels vary, which might leave some patients with significant out-of-pocket expenses. For those looking for a reduced advagraf 5mg price, Polar Bear Meds provides an opportunity to buy Advagraf online at lower prices from Canadian sources. Additionally, new buyers can benefit from a 10% discount on their first order by using the coupon code WELCOMEPB10.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Advagraf an immunosuppressant?

Yes, Advagraf (tacrolimus) is an immunosuppressant. It primarily prevents organ rejection in transplant patients by suppressing the immune system. This helps your body accept the new organ without attacking it. 

What are the advantages of using Advagraf?

Advagraf suppresses your immune response, normally responsible for fighting infections, thereby decreasing the likelihood of your body rejecting a transplanted organ. It is often used alongside other medications to significantly increase the success rate of transplant surgeries.

Is Advagraf Capsule an antibiotic?

No, Advagraf is not an antibiotic; it is an immunosuppressant that belongs to a class of medications known as calcineurin inhibitors. It is majorly used to prevent organ rejection after kidney, heart, or liver transplants by suppressing the immune system to help maintain the organ’s health.

Who should avoid taking Advagraf Capsule?

Advagraf should not be taken by patients who are allergic to it, those with a compromised immune system, high blood pressure, or kidney failure. It is also not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women or for individuals planning to receive any vaccines, such as the MMR vaccine.

Does Advagraf have the potential for abuse?

No, Advagraf Capsule does not have the potential for abuse and is, therefore, not classified as a controlled substance. Controlled substances are regulated in it due to their potential for abuse and require authorization from medical authorities for use.

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