CIKLOSPORIN

This medicine contains the active ingredient ciclosporin which belongs to a group of medicines known as immunosuppressants. Ciclosporin affects the immune system by suppressing it and the body does not produce certain cells which cause the immune reaction. This medicine is prescribed after an organ transplant, bone marrow and stem cell transplantation to stop the body from rejecting them. It is also prescribed for the treatment of eye problems (endogenous uveitis and Behcet's uveitis), skin diseases (atopic dermatitis, or eczema and psoriasis), severe rheumatoid arthritis and a kidney disease (nephrotic syndrome).

Is Ciclosporin suitable for me?

Ciclosporin is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it

• if you are allergic to ciclosporin or to other ingredients of this medicine
• if you are using the products containing Hypericum perforatum, dabigatran etexilate or bosentan and aliskiren.

In particular, you must tell the doctor if you:

• are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or breastfeeding 
• have any signs of infection
• have liver problems
• have kidney problems
• have low levels of magnesium
• have had a transplant
• have high levels of potassium in your blood
• have gout
• have alcohol-related problems
• have epilepsy

Ciclosporin interacts with other medicines. It is most important that you tell the doctor all the medications and herbal supplements that you are currently taking.

See the package leaflet for a complete list of possible contraindications and warnings.

How should I take Ciclosporin?

This medicine is available in form of a soft capsule.

You should take Ciclosporin exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist. The dose is determined according to your weight and condition.

• For example, in the case of organ, bone marrow and stem cell transplantation, the usual dose is between 2 mg and 15 mg per kilogram body weight and divided in two doses.

Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, or do not use it for a longer time than your doctor instructed. Also, this medicine works best if there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep this amount constant, do not miss any doses and take the medicine at the same time each day. Do not take two doses together if you miss a dose.

Read the information leaflet provided with your medication for additional information. Talk to your doctor if you have any additional questions.

What are Ciclosporin side effects?

Like all medicines ciclosporin can cause side effects, including:

Very common:

• kidney problems
• high blood pressure
• headache
• excessive growth of body and facial hair
• high level of lipids in your blood

Common:

• fits
• liver problems
• high sugar level in your blood
• tiredness
• loss of appetite
• nausea, vomiting, stomach pain
• constipation, diarrhea
• fever
• low white blood cells level
• pain in your muscles, muscle spasm
• stomach ulcer
• high level of uric acid or potassium in your blood
• low magnesium levels in your blood

Consult a doctor if the side effects are severe. See the package leaflet for a complete list of side effects.