Prograf (Tacrolimus) and/or equivalents

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• This item requires a prescription from your doctor


• What is a Generic?

Description of Prograf

Prograf comes under a category of drugs referred as immunosuppressants. The generic name of this drug is Tacrolimus. You can buy Prograf online in form of oral capsules, which come in the following three strengths, Prograf 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 5 mg.

Prograf oral capsules contain magnesium stearate, lactose monohydrate, croscarmellose sodium, and hypromellose as inactive ingredients.

Indications & Dosage of Prograf

Prograf prevents the patient’s body from rejecting an organ transplant such as liver, kidney, or heart transplant. This drug is given in combination with other drugs. It works by suppressing the patient’s immune system. That is why Prograf is referred as an immunosuppressant.

In the case of a kidney transplant, the recommended starting dosage is 0.05 mg per kg two times a day when administered along with azathioprine and 0.1 mg per kg two times a day when administered along with mycophenolate. The first dosage should be given within 24 hours of the transplant.

In the case of a heart transplant, the recommended starting dosage is 0.0375mg per kg body weight twice a day. The first dosage should be administered at least 6 hours after the transplantation.

In the case of a liver transplant, the recommended starting dosage is 0.05 – 0.075mg per kg body weight twice a day. The first dosage should be administered at least 6 hours after the transplantation.

Side Effects & Interactions of Prograf

Common side effects associated with Prograf may include:

• Diarrhea
• Hypertension
• Increased sugar levels in the blood
• Headache
• Tremors
• Weakness
• Anemia
• Abdominal pain
• Kidney problems

Other common side effects associated with Prograf may include:

• Fever
• Low blood phosphate levels
• Low blood magnesium levels
• Nausea
• Decreased appetite
• Constipation
• Infection of the urinary tract
• Itching
• Back pain
• Dizziness
• Chest pain
• Leukopenia
• Heartburn
• Low or high blood potassium levels

Less common side effects of Prograf may include:

• Signs of hypersensitivity reaction – itching, hives, wheezing, trouble swallowing or breathing, swelling of the lips, mouth, or throat
• Signs of infection – chills, high fever, coughing, body ache

Prograf is known to interact with various other drugs. If you are taking any medications at the time of the transplant, inform your doctor about it. Drugs that may interact with Prograf may include, but not limited to, the following:

• CYP 3A4 inducer drugs (Bosentan, Aminoglutethimide, Carbamazepine, Nafcillin, Phenobarbital, and others)
• CYP 3A4 inhibitors (Conivaptan, Amprenavir, Imatinib, Isoniazid, Quinidine, Voriconazole, Ritonavir, and others)
• P-glycoprotein inducers (Nefazodone, St. John's wort, Vinblastine, Carbamazepine, Rifampin, and others)
• Proton pump inhibitors (Pantoprazole, Dexlansoprazole, Lansoprazole, Esomeprazole, and others)

Warnings & Precautions of Prograf

Special monitoring may be required if patient has certain medical conditions. Before you buy Prograf, inform your doctor if you have/have had:

• Diabetes
• Liver disease
• Anemia
• Kidney disease
• Lymphoma
• Hypertension
• Heart problems

Prograf may increase the risk of lymphoma and skin cancer. Discuss the risks associated with this drug before using it.

Prograf may increase your chances of developing a serious infection. Consult your doctor immediately if you notice any early signs of an infection like chills, fever, sweats, muscle aches, body aches.

Prograf is listed as a pregnancy category C drug. It may not be safe for an unborn baby. Do not buy Prograf without consulting your doctor if you are pregnant.