About tacrolimus

    Here, we can share the information about how to take tacrolimus.

• Before starting this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack.
• Take tacrolimus exactly as your doctor has told you.
• Take tacrolimus when your stomach is empty. This means an hour before food or 2-3 hours after food.
• It is important that you do not change the brand of tacrolimus that you are taking except on the advice of your transplant specialist. Different brands release different amounts of tacrolimus and if you swap formulations this can either stop the medicine from working properly or lead to side-effects.
  • Adoport® is an immediate-release formulation that is taken twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening.
  • Prograf® is an immediate-release formulation that is taken twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening.
  • Modigraf® granules are used to prepare an immediate-release suspension which is taken twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening. You should dissolve or mix the granules in water before taking. (Do not use cups or spoons that are made of PVC (polyvinylchloride) when you prepare the suspension because the active substance sticks to this kind of plastic).
  • Advagraf® is a prolonged-release formulation that is taken once daily in the morning. Swallow the capsules whole - do not chew or open them.
  • Vivadex® is an immediate-release formulation that is taken twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening.
• Try to take tacrolimus at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses. If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case leave out the missed dose. Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose.
• Do not drink grapefruit juice while you are taking tacrolimus as it can increase the levels of tacrolimus in your body.
• Do not stop taking tacrolimus unless your doctor tells you to do so. Stopping taking tacrolimus will increase the risk of your transplanted organ being rejected.