MedicineClinical Overview
Cyclosporine / Cyclosporin Capsules (25mg, 50mg, 100mg) is a cyclic polypeptide calcineurin inhibitor on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. Inside T-helper lymphocytes, it binds to the immunophilin cyclophilin; the resulting complex inhibits calcineurin phosphatase, preventing the dephosphorylation and nuclear translocation of nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NF-AT). This completely suppresses transcription of interleukin-2 (IL-2) and subsequent T-cell activation and proliferation. Indicated for prophylaxis of organ rejection in kidney, liver, and heart allogeneic transplants, and severe rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and nephrotic syndrome.
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients
Verified Clinical References
Usage Guidelines
Take orally in two divided doses every 12 hours on a consistent schedule with respect to meals with water. Swallow capsules whole. Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM) is MANDATORY: regularly measure trough whole blood concentrations (C0) or 2-hour post-dose levels (C2) to titrate dosing within the narrow therapeutic window.
General Administration Advice: Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage, frequency, and treatment course. For oral medications, swallow with sufficient water. Never stop antibiotics, psychiatric medications, or antihypertensives abruptly without clinical direction.
Possible Side Effects
Common: Dose-dependent nephrotoxicity, hypertension, hirsutism / hypertrichosis, gingival hyperplasia, tremor, headache, hyperkalemia, hypomagnesemia. Rare/Severe: Thrombotic microangiopathy / HUS, severe opportunistic infections, neurotoxicity (convulsions), and secondary lymphomas.
*Note: Individual physiological responses vary. While many patients experience few or no side effects, notify your treating physician if adverse reactions persist or if hypersensitivity (angioedema, skin rash, dyspnea) occurs.
Precautions & Warnings
Black Box Warning: Nephrotoxicity and hypertension; close monitoring of serum creatinine, blood pressure, and trough blood levels is essential. Black Box Warning: Increased susceptibility to severe opportunistic infections and lymphoma. Substrate of CYP3A4 and P-gp; grapefruit juice increases blood levels dramatically. Avoid live vaccines.
Schedule H (Prescription Required)
This medication is scheduled under statutory drug regulatory frameworks (CDSCO / Drugs & Cosmetics Rules). Dispensing requires a valid medical prescription from a registered medical practitioner. Self-medication or unsupervised dosage adjustment carries significant clinical risks.
Medical Disclaimer: Statutory Clinical Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational and price-transparency purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, oncological diagnosis, or chemotherapy protocol guidance. Cancer therapies require specialized administration under the direct supervision of a registered medical oncologist in an accredited healthcare facility.
