Cyclosporine

Mechanism of action

Lower the activity of T cell

Binds to the cystosolic protein cyclophilin of lymphocytes, especially of Tcells

Indications

Management of ulcerative colitis

Treatment of severe rheumatoid arthritis

Prevention of rejection of transplantation

Nursing consideration

Observe patients receiving the drug parenterally

Monitor input and output

Monitor vital signs and also report significant rise in BP

Monitor blood or plasma drug concentration at regular intervals

Periodic tests should be made of neurologic function

Take medication with meals to reduce nausea or GI irritation

Take medication at the same time each day to maintain therapeutic blood levels

Keep scheduled follow up appointments

Do not breastfeed while taking this drug

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity

Breastfeeding

Infections

Malignant tumour

Abnormal renal function

Liver problem and liver damage

Severe uncontrolled high blood pressure

Seizures

High amount of uric acid in the blood

Side effects

High blood pressure

Blood clots in the kidney

Stomach pain

Hair growth in certain areas

Acne

Tremors

Male pattern hair growth in females

Increased size of the gums

Headache

Storage conditions

Keep away from children

Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight

Store at a room temperature

Store below 25 degrees

Do not freeze

Keep away from moisture and heat

Route of administration

Cyclosporine injection

Given together with steroid medicine to prevent the body from rejecting the transplanted organ

Intravenous route

Should be administered with adrenal corticosteroids

Oral administration

Dilute oral solution with orange or apple juice, stir well, then administer immediately