Name of the Procedure:

Tacrolimus, immediate release, oral, 1 mg
Common Name(s): Tacrolimus
Technical/Medical Term: Tacrolimus, immediate release, oral, 1 mg (HCPCS Code: J7507)

Summary

Tacrolimus is an oral medication commonly prescribed to prevent organ rejection in patients who have undergone organ transplants. It accomplishes this by suppressing the immune system to prevent it from attacking the transplanted organ.

Purpose

Tacrolimus is used to address the problem of organ rejection in patients who have received organ transplants. The goal is to maintain the viability of the transplanted organ by reducing the immune system's ability to attack the new organ.

Indications

• Patients who have undergone organ transplantation (e.g., kidney, liver, heart)
• Symptoms of organ rejection or a high risk of rejection
• Part of an immunosuppressive regimen following transplantation

Preparation

• No specific pre-procedure instructions are generally required.
• Blood tests may be needed to monitor tacrolimus levels and kidney function.
• Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications and supplements they are taking.

Procedure Description

1. Prescription: The healthcare provider determines the appropriate dosage.
2. Administration: Tacrolimus is taken orally, usually twice a day.
3. Monitoring: Regular blood tests are required to make sure the drug levels are within the therapeutic range.
4. Adjustments: Dosage may be adjusted based on blood test results and the patient's response.

Tools/Equipment/Technology: Oral administration does not require specialized tools.

Anesthesia/Sedation: Not applicable.

Duration

Administration of tacrolimus is ongoing and typically continues for as long as the risk of organ rejection exists.

Setting

Medication is taken at home but requires periodic visits to a healthcare provider for monitoring.

Personnel

• Prescribing physician (typically a transplant specialist)
• Nursing staff for blood draws and patient education
• Pharmacist for medication dispensing and advice

Risks and Complications

• Common: High blood pressure, kidney problems, increased risk of infections, diabetes
• Rare: Allergic reactions, neurotoxicity (e.g., headache, tremor), gastrointestinal issues

Benefits

• Prevention of organ rejection
• Prolonged survival of transplanted organ
• Enhanced quality of life following transplantation
• Benefits may become apparent within weeks to months as the risk of rejection subsides.

Recovery

• Daily oral medication adherence is crucial.
• Regular monitoring through blood tests is required.
• Patients should avoid certain foods and medications that can interact with tacrolimus.
• Immediate medical advice necessary if side effects occur.

Alternatives

• Other immunosuppressive medications such as:
  • Cyclosporine
  • Mycophenolate mofetil
  • Sirolimus
• Pros and Cons:
  • Tacrolimus is often preferred due to its efficacy, but alternative medications may be used if patients experience adverse side effects or have contraindications.

Patient Experience

• Most patients tolerate tacrolimus well when adhering to prescribed guidelines.
• Initial side effects may include gastrointestinal discomfort or headache, which often diminish over time.
• Pain management is generally not required for the administration of tacrolimus, but patients should report any side effects to their healthcare provider for appropriate management.

Regular follow-up with healthcare providers ensures that the medication is working effectively and allows for timely adjustments to minimize risks and optimize patient outcomes.