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