Tacrolimus capsules: how to take it safely
Prograf, Advagraf
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Prevents organ rejection after a kidney, liver, heart or other organ transplant.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow capsules whole with water. Do not crush or chew.
- You will need regular blood tests to check the level.
When to take it
Take it at the same times each day: twice a day (Prograf) or once a day in the morning (Advagraf).
Take it with
Always the same way: always with food, or always without food.
What to avoid
- Switching between brands without your doctor's advice. This can change your levels.
- Grapefruit juice, and St John's wort.
- Live vaccines.
- Missing a dose or doubling a dose.
- Strong sunlight. Use sunscreen.
Possible side effects
Tremor, headache, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, kidney changes, infections, hair loss.
Get help if
Reduced urine, fever, signs of infection, severe headache, vision changes, seizures or a new skin growth: get urgent help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.