Often used for:
Prevention or treatment of GVHD; prevention of organ transplant rejection
About tacrolimus
Tacrolimus suppresses the immune system to prevent rejection or treat GVHD. Pharmacogenomic testing may guide dosing. Patients require frequent lab monitoring for tacrolimus levels, electrolytes, and organ function.
Possible long-term effects
- Secondary cancers (lymphoma, skin cancer)
- Fertility problems
Tacrolimus at home
- Take at the same time daily, consistently with regard to meals.
- Swallow capsules whole.
- Shake oral suspension well; measure with the provided device and mix with non-grapefruit juice if needed.
- Avoid antacids 2 hours before or after dosing.
- Store at room temperature and handle safely.
- Dispose of supplies according to instructions.
Possible side effects
- Increased infection risk
- Tremors
- High blood pressure
- Low magnesium or high potassium
- Decreased kidney function
- Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Headache
- Joint pain
- Sleep problems
- Vision changes
- Numbness or tingling
- Seizures (rare)
- Fatigue or weakness
- Anemia
- High blood sugar (diabetes)
- Decreased liver function
- Not all patients experience these effects. Report all symptoms.
Tips for patients and families
- Discuss all questions with the doctor or pharmacist.
- Review all medicines for potential interactions; many drugs affect tacrolimus levels.
- Avoid grapefruit products.
- Protect skin from sunlight.
- Use birth control during treatment and for 6 months afterward.
- Inform the care team if sexually active, pregnant, or breastfeeding.
- Maintain good hygiene and avoid sick contacts.
- Drink adequate fluids as directed.
- Follow instructions for timing blood level draws.
- If vomiting occurs within 30 minutes of an oral dose, repeat the dose.
