Cyclosporine

Generic Name

cyclosporine

Trade Name

Sandimmune

Indication

prevention of rejection in transplantation, treatment of severe RA, management of ulcerative colitis

Action

inhibits normal immune response

Therapeutic Class

immunosuppresants, antirheumatics (DMARD)

Pharmacologic Class

polypeptides (cyclic)

Nursing Considerations

may cause seizures, tremors, hypertension, hepatotoxicity, diarrhea, N/V, gingival hyperplasia

increases immune suppression with corticosteroids

avoid grapefruit juice while taking this medications

assess for signs of organ rejection

monitor renal panel, liver enzymes

take medication as directed

lifelong therapy required for transplant patients

instruct pt on how to take blood pressure