Sirolimus: An Alternative Treatment for Kidney Transplant

 WHAT IS SIROLIMUS?

Sirolimus (rapamune) specifically belongs to the class of drugs named immunosuppressants. As the word immunosuppressant specified, the action of this class of drugs is to suppress the individual's immune system. The motive behind the sirolimus uses is to dampen down the immune system enough to stop it rejecting the transplant kidney while still keeping it active enough in order to fight infections. 

TAKING YOUR SIROLIMUS:

The tablets should be consumed with food or on an empty stomach at about the same time every day. In case you forget to consume your dose, or consumed excess dose, inform your doctor.

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice should be avoided for 1 hour prior to consuming sirolimus 2 mg tablet, because it may affect the amount of sirolimus on the body.

Tablets should be consumed as your healthcare provider instructed, avoid changing the sirolimus doses yourself. 

Sirolimus comes in the tablet form and also in the form of liquid. If you are consuming the tablets, the different strengths are not interchangeable i.e. a sirolimus 1 mg tablet is not exactly the same as 2 x 0.5mg tablets.

UNWANTED SIDE EFFECTS:

Sirolimus may cause adverse reactions on some people. The most commonly reported sirolimus side effects may include:

• headaches
• feeling sick
• rash
• high cholesterol
• anaemia
• taking longer to heal wounds

You need to report your healthcare provider if you have any of these side effects. The rapamune drug may also be responsible for causing anaemia.

Patients are more likely to get infections while taking immunosuppressant therapy. 

There are some other medications which may cause problems with sirolimus, these include:

• erythromycin
• clarithromycin
• fluconazole
• rifampicin
• miconazole
• St. John’s Wort. 

Patients need to avoid sunbathing and are recommended to use a sunblock in sunny weather. Always visit your healthcare provider for the regular skin checkups. 

STORING YOUR SIROLIMUS:

Sirolimus tablets should always be stored in the original container in a cool, dry place, and away from the children. 

Always consume your rapamune 1mg tablets as instructed by your healthcare professional and only interrupt taking them on the instructions of your healthcare provider.

SIROLIMUS COST: 

The sirolimus cost may vary from non-branded (generic) to brand drugs. In order to get the best sirolimus price contact any WHO-GDP & ISO certified pharmaceutical wholesaler company. 

OTHER MEDICINES FOR KIDNEY TRANSPLANT:

There are several other medication, which can also be used in kidney transplant, are as follows:

• Mycophenolate mofetil 500 mg
• Tacrolimus
• Co-trimoxazole
• Isoniazid
• Azathioprine
• Prednisolone
• Cyclophosphamide
• Ciclosporin

Note: Before starting any treatment, consult a physician. In order to know more about sirolimus, read full prescribing information. 

FAQ's

What is sirolimus used for?

Sirolimus prescribed together with other medicines in order to prevent rejection of the kidney transplants. 

Is Sirolimus the same as Rapamune?

Sirolimus, also can be addressed as rapamycin. The drug has immunosuppressant functions and is useful in order to prevent the rejection of kidney transplant.

How does sirolimus work?

Sirolimus belongs to a family of medicines named immunosuppressants. It acts by suppressing the body's immune system.