Indications 

Sandimmune Oral Solution is a prescription medicine used along with adrenal corticosteroids to prevent organ rejection in kidney, liver, and heart transplants. 

In addition, Sandimmune Oral Solution may be used to manage chronic rejection in individuals who have undergone previous immunosuppressive treatment. 

As an immunosuppressant, Sandimmune Oral Solution works by suppressing the immune system, facilitating the acceptance of the new organ as if it were a natural part of the body. 

Uses and Dosage 

Thoroughly review the provided medication guide and patient information leaflet for Sandimmune Oral Solution before initial use and with each prescription refill. If any section is unclear, seek clarification from your doctor or pharmacist. 

Individual patients may require different dosages of Sandimmune Oral Solution depending on their weight, medical history, laboratory test results, and treatment response. 

Typically, this medication is taken once a day as prescribed by the doctor. It can be taken with or without food, but whichever way is chosen, it should be taken the same way with each dose. 

Use the supplied medicine syringe (not a household spoon) for precise dosage measurement. 

The measured dose can be combined with a glass of room temperature milk, chocolate milk, or orange juice to enhance the flavor. Avoid frequent changes in the chosen liquid.  

Follow these steps to prepare the mixture: 

1. Fill a glass (not plastic) with your selected drink. 
2. Hold the syringe over the liquid and press down on the plunger to dispense the medication into the glass. 
3. Stir the mixture thoroughly. 
4. Consume all the liquid immediately. 
5. Pour a small amount of the chosen drink into the glass, swirl it to rinse, and drink the liquid. 
6. Wipe the outer surface of the syringe with a clean towel and replace the protective cover.  
   • Avoid washing the syringe with water. If washing is necessary, ensure it is completely dry before measuring another dose. 

For optimal outcomes, take Sandimmune Oral Solution consistently, exactly as directed, and at the same time daily. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects 

• Headache 
• Stomach pain or diarrhea 
• Upset stomach or vomiting 
• Hair growth 
• Acne 
• Dizziness 
• Flushing 
• Signs of a common cold 
• Joint pain 
• Leg cramps 

Notify your doctor promptly if any of the common side effects above persist or worsen. 

Serious Side Effects 

• Signs of high blood pressure such as: 
  • Severe headache 
  • Dizziness 
  • Fainting 
  • Changes in eyesight 
• Signs of kidney problems, such as: 
  • Difficulty urinating 
  • Alterations in urine volume 
  • Blood in urine 
  • Significant weight gain 
• Signs of electrolyte problems, such as: 
  • Mood swings 
  • Confusion 
  • Muscle pain or weakness 
  • Abnormal heartbeat 
  • Seizures 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Severe stomach issues 
• Unexplained bruising or bleeding 
• Fatigue or weakness 
• Abnormal sensations like burning, numbness, or tingling 
• Chest pain, pressure, or rapid heartbeat 
• Changes in gums 
• Hearing loss 
• Shortness of breath 
• Shakiness 
• Swelling 

Contact your doctor or get immediate medical help if you have any of the serious side effects above. 

Serious and potentially fatal liver issues have been associated with Sandimmune Oral Solution. Promptly contact your doctor if you experience indications of liver problems, such as: 

• Dark urine 
• Fatigue 
• Loss of appetite 
• Stomach discomfort 
• Pale stools 
• Vomiting 
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes 

The use of Sandimmune Oral Solution can lead to a severe condition known as progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), which may result in disability or death. Inform your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms such as: 

• Confusion 
• Memory issues 
• Depression 
• Behavioral changes 
• Unequal strength in limbs 
• Difficulty speaking or thinking 
• Altered balance 
• Changes in vision 

Allergic Reactions 

Severe allergic reactions to Sandimmune Oral Solution are uncommon. Nonetheless, seek immediate medical help if you notice symptoms such as: 

• Skin rash; hives; itching 
• Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever 
• Wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat 
• Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking 
• Unusual hoarseness 
• Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat 

The side effects of Sandimmune Oral Solution listed here may not be exhaustive. If any other effects arise, inform your doctor. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Sandimmune Oral Solution, inform your doctor if you have any hypersensitivities, particularly to cyclosporine or any inactive ingredients present in the solution. 

To ensure Sandimmune Oral Solution is safe for you, disclose to your doctor your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Kidney disease 
• Liver disease 
• High blood pressure 
• Cancer 
• Skin lesions of unknown origin 
• Radiation treatment (including PUVA or UVB) 
• Mineral imbalance (e.g., low magnesium or high potassium levels) 
• Recent or current infections 
• Elevated cholesterol/triglyceride levels 

Various medications can interact with Sandimmune Oral Solution, affecting how it works. To mitigate potential drug interactions, communicate with your doctor regarding all your medications, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. 

Refrain from consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Sandimmune Oral Solution unless advised otherwise by your doctor. Grapefruit may heighten the risk of side effects associated with this medication.  

Before taking any potassium supplements, or salt substitutes containing potassium, seek advice from your doctor, as Sandimmune Oral Solution can potentially elevate potassium levels. 

Consult your doctor prior to receiving any vaccinations, as the use of certain vaccines in conjunction with Sandimmune Oral Solution may increase the risk of infection or reduce vaccine efficacy. 

Sandimmune Oral Solution may increase susceptibility to infections or exacerbate existing ones. Avoid contact with individuals carrying easily transmissible infections (e.g., chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, flu). If you have been exposed to an infection or seek additional information, consult your doctor for guidance. 

Drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion can be experienced when taking Sandimmune Oral Solution. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you are aware of how this medication affects you. 

The risk of skin cancer may increase with Sandimmune Oral Solution. Limit sun exposure, including sunlamps and tanning beds. Utilize sunscreen and wear protective clothing and eyewear when exposed to the sun. 

Sandimmune Oral Solution poses a risk to the developing baby if taken during pregnancy. Promptly contact your doctor if you are pregnant or become pregnant while taking this medication. 

Seek medical advice before nursing if you are taking Sandimmune Oral Solution, as cyclosporine can be transferred to breast milk. 

Pregnant or breast-feeding individuals, as well as those with liver disease, alcohol dependence, or other conditions requiring alcohol restriction, should exercise caution when taking Sandimmune Oral Solution due to its potential alcohol content.