PROGRAF 0.5 MG 50 CAP

Prograf (generic name: Tacrolimus) is an immunosuppressant medication primarily used to prevent organ rejection in patients who have undergone a kidney, liver, or heart transplant. It belongs to a class of drugs known as calcineurin inhibitors. Prograf works by suppressing the immune system to prevent it from attacking the transplanted organ.

How Prograf Works

Mechanism of Action

1. Calcineurin Inhibition:
   • Tacrolimus inhibits the enzyme calcineurin, which is crucial for activating T-cells in the immune system. By blocking calcineurin, Prograf prevents T-cells from being activated and proliferating, thus reducing the immune response.
2. Reduction of Immune Response:
   • By inhibiting T-cell activation, Prograf effectively reduces the immune system’s ability to recognize and attack the transplanted organ as foreign. This helps in maintaining organ acceptance and preventing rejection.
3. Prevention of Cytokine Release:
   • Prograf also interferes with the production of cytokines, which are signaling molecules that facilitate the immune response. By inhibiting cytokine release, Prograf further suppresses immune activity.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Tremors:
  • Patients may experience hand or body tremors, which can be managed with dose adjustments.
• Headache:
  • Headaches are a common side effect and can often be alleviated with over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Diarrhea:
  • Gastrointestinal upset, including diarrhea, may occur and typically resolves with time or dietary modifications.
• Nausea and Vomiting:
  • Some individuals may experience nausea or vomiting, which can be managed with antiemetic medications.
• High Blood Pressure:
  • Prograf can increase blood pressure, requiring regular monitoring and potential antihypertensive treatment.

Serious Side Effects

• Kidney Damage:
  • Long-term use of Prograf may lead to kidney damage or dysfunction. Regular kidney function tests are recommended.
• Infections:
  • As an immunosuppressant, Prograf increases susceptibility to infections. Patients should be vigilant for signs of infection and seek medical attention promptly.
• Liver Toxicity:
  • Liver function abnormalities may occur, necessitating regular liver function tests.
• Diabetes:
  • Prograf may cause or worsen diabetes. Blood glucose levels should be monitored regularly.
• Neurotoxicity:
  • High doses of Prograf can lead to neurotoxic effects such as seizures or altered mental status.

Indications

Prograf is indicated for:

• Kidney Transplant:
  • Used to prevent organ rejection in patients receiving a kidney transplant.
• Liver Transplant:
  • Used for preventing rejection in patients who have undergone a liver transplant.
• Heart Transplant:
  • Employed in heart transplant recipients to reduce the risk of organ rejection.
• Bone Marrow Transplant:
  • Sometimes used in patients receiving a bone marrow transplant to prevent graft-versus-host disease.

Contraindications

Prograf should not be used in the following conditions:

• Hypersensitivity:
  • Known hypersensitivity to tacrolimus or any of its components.
• Severe Liver Dysfunction:
  • Patients with severe liver impairment should avoid Prograf due to potential exacerbation of liver issues.
• Active Infections:
  • Use in patients with active infections may increase the risk of worsening the infection.
• Pregnancy:
  • Prograf is contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus. Effective contraception is advised during treatment.
• Recent Vaccinations:
  • Live vaccines should be avoided during Prograf therapy due to potential interactions and reduced vaccine efficacy.

Price in Different Countries

The price of Prograf 0.5 mg capsules varies by country and healthcare system. Below is a table showing approximate price ranges in various countries.

Country	Price (Per 50 Capsules)	Reference
United States	$1,200 – $1,500	GoodRx
United Kingdom	£1,000 – £1,200	NHS UK
Canada	CAD $1,500 – $1,800	Health Canada
Australia	AUD $1,800 – $2,000	PBS Australia
India	₹80,000 – ₹100,000	Medlife

Top 5 Global Brands

1. Prograf – Astellas Pharma:
   • The original manufacturer of tacrolimus, widely recognized for its efficacy and safety profile.
2. Tacrolimus – Mylan:
   • A leading manufacturer of generic tacrolimus, offering a cost-effective alternative to Prograf.
3. Tacrolimus – Teva:
   • Another prominent supplier of generic tacrolimus, providing accessibility for patients.
4. Tacrolimus – Sandoz:
   • Offers a reliable generic version of tacrolimus, known for its affordability and effectiveness.
5. Tacrolimus – Novartis:
   • Provides generic tacrolimus with a focus on high-quality manufacturing standards.