Gengraf®
Drug class
- Calcineurin Inhibitor
Generic name
Cyclosporine
Safety
Efficacy
Convenience
Box warning
Cyclosporine raises the risk of serious infections and cancers, especially skin cancer and lymphoma. The danger depends on how much and how long the drug is used. Only experienced doctors should prescribe cyclosporine, and patients must be watched closely for infections and cancer.
Indications
Approved for severe ulcerative colitis.
How it works
Lowers activity of the immune system and lowers inflammation (swelling) and the inflammatory response.
Pre-treatment screening tests
Blood tests at baseline, liver and kidney screening, blood pressure, electrolyte panels (sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium) lipid panel, complete blood count.
Tests during screening
Blood tests at baseline, liver and kidney screening, blood pressure, cyclosporine levels, lipid panel.
Route of administration
Frequency
Infusion 1 time every day Oral 2 times
Side effects
High blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, weight gain, headache, insomnia (trouble sleeping), mood swings, high blood pressure, impaired kidney function, high triglycerides, high creatinine, high liver enzymes, electrolyte imbalance.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to cyclosporine or any component of the formulation. IV cyclosporine is contraindicated in hypersensitivity to polyoxyethylated castor oil.
Safety information
Serious infection-like symptoms, new or changing skin lump or growth, high blood pressure, headaches, unable to pass urine, feeling very weak or tired, shortness of breath, swelling.