Indications
Neoral is a prescription medication indicated to prevent organ rejection after an organ transplant, such as a kidney, liver, or heart transplant. It prevents the body's immune system from attacking and rejecting a transplanted organ. Neoral contains the active ingredient cyclosporine, and it is classified as an immunosuppressant medication. Cyclosporine works by suppressing the immune system to prevent it from attacking the transplanted organ.
By reducing the activity of T-lymphocytes, Neoral helps to prevent rejection of a transplanted organ, allowing the organ transplant to be successful. Additionally, Neoral can also be used to treat other conditions, such as psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis that are caused by an overactive immune system.
Uses and Dosage
Neoral (Cyclosporine) comes in the form of capsules to be taken by mouth. The Capsules are usually taken twice a day. The capsules should not be crushed or chewed. Because cyclosporine can affect the immune system, it should be handled by caregivers with gloves. It can take several months to work and needs frequent blood test monitoring.
Take both types of the capsule on a regular schedule. Take Neoral capsule at the same time each day and allow the same amount of time between doses and meals every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take cyclosporine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of the medication or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Neoral (Cyclosporine):
- Acne
- Breast enlargement in men
- Burning or tingling in the hands, arms, feet, or legs
- Cramps
- Depression
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- Ear problems
- Flushing
- Gas
- Growth of extra tissue on the gums
- Headache
- Heartburn
- Increased hair growth on the face, arms, or back
- Muscle or joint pain
- Pain or pressure in the face
- Uncontrollable shaking of a part of your body
Serious Side Effects of Neoral (Cyclosporine):
- Changes in behavior or mood
- Changes in vision
- Confusion
- Difficulty controlling body movements
- Loss of consciousness
- Pale skin
- Purple blotches on the skin
- Rash
- Seizures
- Swelling of the hands, arms, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
Form and Strength
Neoral (Cyclosporine) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Neoral: Capsule
- 10 mg
- 25 mg
- 50 mg
- 100 mg
Cyclosporine: Capsule
- 25 mg
- 50 mg
- 100 mg
Caution
- Neoral is an immunosuppressant drug, which means it can increase the risk of infections, including serious infections that can be life-threatening.
- Neoral can cause kidney damage, especially in people with pre-existing kidney problems or those who take high doses of the drug.
- Neoral can cause high blood pressure and changes in cholesterol levels, which can increase the risk of heart disease.
- Neoral can interact with other medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and certain antibiotics, which can increase the risk of side effects or affect the effectiveness of the drug.
- Neoral can cause gum swelling and overgrowth or other gum problems.
- Neoral may increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as lymphoma and skin cancer.
- Neoral can cause liver damage, especially in people with pre-existing liver disease or those who take high doses of the drug.
- Neoral may increase the risk of developing serious neurological side effects, such as seizure disorders or peripheral neuropathy.
- Neoral can cause gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
- Neoral can cause changes in blood glucose levels, which can be problematic for people with diabetes.
- Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking Neoral, as they can increase the levels of the medication in your bloodstream and potentially cause side effects.
- Avoid getting vaccinated with live vaccines while taking Neoral, as they may not be as effective.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How should I store Neoral?
Store Neoral at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not store it in the bathroom or in the car, particularly during hot or cold weather. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.
How is Neoral taken?
Neoral comes in the form of soft gelatin capsules to be taken by mouth. The recommended dose is based on your weight and will be determined by your doctor. It is usually taken twice a day on a regular schedule, so try to take it at the same time each day.
Is it safe to use Neoral while pregnant?
There are not enough studies that looked at the safety of Neoral in human pregnancy, but animal studies showed that it can seriously harm and death to babies.
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