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Description
Prograf Capsules – Tacrolimus Capsules – 0.5mg 1mg 5mg, 50 Capsules
Prograf Tacrolimus Capsules are prescription immunosuppressant medicines used to prevent rejection of transplanted organs such as kidneys, livers, and hearts. Tacrolimus works by suppressing immune system activity, preventing the body from attacking the transplanted organ.
Prograf is a brand formulation of tacrolimus, a calcineurin inhibitor widely used in transplant medicine. Capsules are available in 0.5mg, 1mg, and 5mg strengths to allow precise dose adjustment.
Dock Pharmacy is a GPhC-registered UK pharmacy providing pharmacist-reviewed prescription medicines with secure dispensing and delivery.
Quick Product Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Medicine | Prograf Capsules |
| Active Ingredient | Tacrolimus |
| Drug Class | Calcineurin inhibitor immunosuppressant |
| Pack Size | 50 capsules |
| Strengths Available | 0.5mg, 1mg, 5mg |
| Primary Use | Prevention of organ transplant rejection |
| Prescription Status | Prescription required – pharmacist review included |
Medical Definition
Tacrolimus is an immunosuppressant medicine belonging to the calcineurin inhibitor class of drugs.
It is commonly prescribed following organ transplantation to prevent the immune system from rejecting the transplanted organ.
Prograf is the original brand formulation of tacrolimus used worldwide in transplant medicine.
Mechanism of Action
Tacrolimus suppresses immune responses by inhibiting calcineurin-dependent T-cell activation.
This leads to:
-
Reduced T-cell proliferation
-
Decreased production of inflammatory cytokines
-
Reduced immune attack on transplanted organs
The result is long-term protection of transplanted organs from rejection.
Tacrolimus Transplant Treatment Guide
Tacrolimus forms a key part of post-transplant immunosuppressive therapy.
Organs commonly treated
Tacrolimus is prescribed to prevent rejection following:
• Kidney transplant
• Liver transplant
• Heart transplant
Tacrolimus is often used alongside other medicines such as:
Together these medicines reduce the risk of acute and chronic organ rejection.
How to Take Prograf Capsules
Prograf should be taken exactly as prescribed by your transplant specialist.
Typical instructions:
• Take capsules twice daily
• Take doses 12 hours apart
• Swallow capsules whole with water
• Maintain consistent timing each day
Tacrolimus treatment requires regular blood monitoring to maintain safe therapeutic levels.
Monitoring During Tacrolimus Treatment
Patients taking tacrolimus may require:
-
Tacrolimus blood level monitoring
-
Kidney function tests
-
Blood pressure monitoring
-
Infection screening
These tests ensure safe long-term treatment.
Possible Side Effects
Common side effects include:
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Tremor
-
Headache
-
Increased blood pressure
-
Kidney function changes
-
Increased infection risk
-
Gastrointestinal discomfort
Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention.
Drug Interaction Table
Tacrolimus interacts with several medicines that may affect blood levels.
| Drug Category | Examples | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Antifungals | Ketoconazole, Itraconazole | Increase tacrolimus levels |
| Antibiotics | Erythromycin, Clarithromycin | Increase tacrolimus levels |
| Anticonvulsants | Carbamazepine, Phenytoin | Reduce tacrolimus levels |
| Herbal products | St John’s Wort | Reduce effectiveness |
| Calcium channel blockers | Diltiazem, Verapamil | Increase tacrolimus levels |
Patients should always inform their doctor or pharmacist about all medicines they take.
Prograf vs Adoport Tacrolimus
| Feature | Prograf | Adoport |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Tacrolimus | Tacrolimus |
| Drug class | Calcineurin inhibitor | Calcineurin inhibitor |
| Product type | Brand medicine | Generic medicine |
| Clinical use | Prevent transplant rejection | Prevent transplant rejection |
| Cost | Typically higher | Typically lower |
| Effectiveness | Equivalent | Equivalent |
Veterinary Use of Tacrolimus (Off-Label)
Tacrolimus is also used in veterinary dermatology and immune-mediated diseases.
Possible veterinary uses include:
• Atopic dermatitis in dogs
• Autoimmune skin disease in dogs and cats
• Immune-mediated inflammatory conditions
Tacrolimus is most commonly used topically in veterinary medicine, but systemic use may occur under specialist veterinary supervision.
⚠ Veterinary use must always be prescribed by a qualified veterinarian.
Why Buy From Dock Pharmacy
Dock Pharmacy provides safe and regulated access to prescription medicines.
Our service includes:
• GPhC-registered UK pharmacy
• Pharmacist clinical review of prescriptions
• Secure online medicine ordering
• Genuine MHRA-approved medicines
• Reliable UK dispensing and delivery
Our pharmacists ensure safe and responsible medicine supply.
FAQ
What are Prograf tacrolimus capsules used for?
Prograf tacrolimus capsules are used to prevent rejection of transplanted organs such as kidneys, livers, and hearts.
How does tacrolimus prevent organ rejection?
Tacrolimus suppresses immune system activity by blocking calcineurin, preventing immune cells from attacking transplanted organs.
What strengths of Prograf capsules are available?
Prograf capsules are available in 0.5mg, 1mg, and 5mg strengths.
Is Prograf the same as Adoport?
Both medicines contain tacrolimus and work in the same way. Prograf is the brand medicine while Adoport is a generic alternative.
Can tacrolimus be used for dogs or cats?
Tacrolimus may sometimes be prescribed by veterinarians for immune-related skin diseases or inflammatory conditions in animals.
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