Ciclosporin

Dosage Forms Available

• Ciclosporin is available for use via the oral route in the form of capsules and solutions.

• It is also available as a liquid to drink.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Ciclosporin is meant for use in adults and children of all ages, with dose adjustments based on the specific condition being treated.

Contraindications

• Ciclosporin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Ciclosporin or any of its components.

• It should not be used in patients with uncontrolled hypertension or active infections.

• Patients with renal or hepatic impairment should not take this medication.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Ciclosporin can interact with antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin and clarithromycin), antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole and fluconazole), and calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem and verapamil). Other interactions may occur with anticonvulsants (e.g., carbamazepine and phenytoin), statins (e.g., simvastatin, atorvastatin), and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (e.g., ibuprofen and naproxen).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Ciclosporin may lead to symptoms such as kidney problems, high blood pressure, tremors, headaches, nausea, vomiting, and seizures. In case of suspected overdose, consult a doctor immediately.

• If you forget to take a dose of Ciclosporin, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the doses.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects of Ciclosporin are temporary and generally harmless. They resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• Drinking plenty of water may help alleviate some side effects like dry mouth and thirst.

• Taking Ciclosporin with meals can help manage gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and stomach upset.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Ciclosporin may cause dizziness, blurred vision, or other side effects that could affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how this medicine affects you.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• It is advised to consult your doctor before using Ciclosporin during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The potential benefits must be weighed against the potential risks.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with kidney or liver disease should use Ciclosporin with caution, as it can worsen these conditions.

• Caution should also be exercised in patients with high blood pressure or infections, as Ciclosporin can affect blood pressure control and immune response.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Maintain a balanced diet to prevent weight gain and to manage side effects such as high blood fat levels.

• Regular physical activity can help manage high blood pressure, a potential side effect of Ciclosporin.

• Regular monitoring of blood pressure is recommended.

• Avoid consumption of grapefruit or grapefruit juice while on Ciclosporin medication.

• Practice good oral hygiene to avoid gum problems that may be caused by Ciclosporin.