他克莫司胶囊(Prograf)的购买渠道有哪些

Tacrolimus capsule (Prograf) is a key immunosuppressant used to prevent rejection after organ transplantation. It reduces the risk of rejection by inhibiting T cell activity. The trade name is Prograf and it has been launched in China.

What are the purchasing channels for Tacrolimus Capsules (Prograf)

Tacrolimus Capsules have been widely marketed in China, and the price of the original drug is about US$110. Patients can purchase genuine products through hospital pharmacies, chain pharmacies and online platforms. The medicine needs to be purchased from the hospital pharmacy with a prescription from a transplant specialist, and some large chain pharmacies also provide the medicine. You need to choose a formal platform for online platforms. When purchasing drugs, you need to check the drug batch number, expiration date and anti-counterfeiting label to avoid purchasing products from informal channels.

Precautions for the use of Tacrolimus Capsules (Prograf)

Tacrolimus must be used strictly in accordance with medical instructions to avoid toxicity or rejection. The following are key precautions:

Necessary assessment before medication

Liver and kidney function, blood routine and electrocardiogram examinations must be completed before treatment. Patients with a history of cerebral microbleeds or epilepsy need to be evaluated for the risk of neurotoxicity. If you have recently received a live vaccine such as chickenpox vaccine, you need to delay taking the vaccine for at least 4 weeks.

Taboos in diet and lifestyle

Do not consume grapefruit, pomegranate and alcohol while taking the medicine. These foods will interfere with drug metabolism and lead to abnormally high blood drug concentrations. Avoid high-fat meals, and it is recommended to take the medicine on an empty stomach, such as 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Smoking may reduce the efficacy of the medicine, so it is recommended to quit smoking gradually.

Restrictions on medication for special groups

Pregnant women must take effective contraceptive measures. If they become pregnant unexpectedly, they must stop taking the medication immediately. Breastfeeding women should choose formula feeding. Elderly patients need to reduce the initial dose by 20%-30%, and children (≥4 years old) need to accurately calculate the dose based on body weight. People with hepatic insufficiency need to monitor blood drug concentrations regularly to avoid drug accumulation.

If you experience hand tremors, persistent headaches, or decreased urine output, you need to contact your doctor immediately to adjust your treatment plan.

Drug interactions of Tacrolimus Capsules (Prograf)

Tacrolimus interacts with a variety of drugs, which may affect the efficacy or increase toxicity. The following are common risk combinations:

Interactions with CYP3A4 inhibitors

Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (such as clarithromycin, voriconazole) will significantly increase the plasma concentration of tacrolimus, requiring a dose reduction of more than 50%. During the use of such drugs, blood drug concentrations need to be monitored 2-3 times a week to prevent nephrotoxicity or neurotoxicity.

Risk of combination with immunomodulators

The risk of cytomegalovirus infection may be increased when combined with mycophenolate mofetil. Viral load needs to be tested regularly, and preventive antiviral treatment required if necessary. Avoid concomitant use with sirolimus as it may aggravate myelosuppression.

Conflict with daily medications

Gastric medications containing aluminum/magnesium (such as aluminum hydroxide) need to be taken 2 hours apart to avoid reducing the absorption rate. NSAIDs may worsen kidney damage.

Tacrolimus may cause diarrhea, high blood pressure, or an increased risk of infection. If fever, rash or difficulty breathing occur, stop taking the medicine and seek medical advice immediately. The medicine should be stored in a dark place below 25°C and should be used within 3 months after opening.