| Rapamune® | |
| Brand Name: | Rapamune® |
| Active Ingredient: | sirolimus |
| Strength(s): | 1mg/mL, 1mg 2mg and 5mg tablets |
| Dosage Form(s): | Oral Solution, Tablet |
| Company Name: | Wyeth-Ayerst Laboratories |
| Availability: | Prescription only |
| *Dated Approved by FDA: | September 15, 1999 |
| *Approval by FDA does not mean that the drug is available for consumers at this time. | |
|
What
is Rapamune used for? Rapamune is used together with cyclosporine and a steroid medication to prevent your body from rejecting a kidney transplant.
Special Warnings Concerning Rapamune: In order to
prevent transplant rejection, Rapamune suppresses the body’s immune
system. This also decreases the ability of the body's immune system to
protect against other diseases. While taking Rapamune there is an
increased risk of infection and possible development of lymphoma (cancer
of the immune system).
General Precautions with Rapamune: Rapamune can
increase your blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which may require
treatment. Your doctor will
monitor your kidney function and may adjust the dose of some of your
immunosuppressant medications based on the test results. Women of
childbearing age should begin using an effective birth control method
before starting to take Rapamune, continue during Rapamune treatment, and
for 12 weeks after stopping Rapamune. Before receiving
any vaccinations, tell your doctor that you are taking Rapamune. Some
vaccinations may be less effective during treatment with Rapamune, and
certain vaccinations should be avoided. Avoid sources of
infection. Rapamune weakens
your body's immune system and increases your risk of infection. Notify
your doctor at the first sign of fever, chills, or a sore throat.
What should I tell my doctor or health care provider? Because many
medications can interact with Rapamune, review ALL the medications that you are taking with your doctor, including
those you take without a prescription. Tell your doctor
if you are trying to become pregnant, are already pregnant, or are
breast-feeding.
What are some possible side effects of Rapamune? (This
is not a complete list of side effects reported with Rapamune. Your
health care provider can discuss with you a more complete list of side
effects.) Rapamune is an
immunosuppressant drug. Immunosuppressant
drugs weaken your body's immune system and increase your risk of
developing infection and possibly lymphoma. (See "Special
Warnings"). Other side effects may include:
For more detailed information about Rapamune, ask your health care provider. Link
to Rapamune's Approved Labeling and Patient Information
Date Posted: Updated: |