Lupus Site - a guide for lupus patients and their families

Brand names - Ciclosporin, Neoral, Sandimmune

Medication type - Immunosuppresant (cytotoxic)

Common side effects - Headache, tremor, unusual hair growth on body and face, swelling or bleeding of gums.

Rare side effects - Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, acne or oily skin, sinus inflammation or infection, leg cramps, enlargement and tenderness of the breasts in males (gynecomastia).

Serious side effects - Frequent urge to urinate; fever or chills; yellow-tinged eyes and skin caused by liver problems; abnormal bleeding; fatigue; high blood pressure. Call your doctor immediately. Psoriasis patients formerly treated with other types of therapy (for example, ultraviolet light or methotrexate) are at increased risk of skin cancer; report any new skin lesion to your doctor immediately.

Uses - Used to treat severe rheumatoid arthritis or SLE that has not responded to other drug therapy. Cyclosporine suppresses the functioning of the bodys immune system.

Food interactions - Do not take cyclosporine with grapefruit juice.

Other notes - Cyclosporine can be taken with food to avoid stomach upset. Prolonged use of cyclosporine may impair kidney function. Periodic examinations and laboratory tests are required. Avoid alcohol. Cyclosporine has been shown to cause serious birth defects in animals. Adequate human studies have not been done. Avoid this drug during pregnancy unless it is clearly needed. Cyclosporine passes into breast milk; avoid or discontinue use while nursing. Avoid any immunizations except those approved by your doctor. Do not use plastic or wax-lined cups to take this medicine. Maintain good dental hygiene; this medication can cause gum problems. Cyclosporine can make you more sensitive to sunlight. Limit exposure until you determine how the drug affects you.