Ciclosporin

Question 1

what is ciclosporin used for

Answer 1

• ulcerative colitis
• organ/bone marrow transplant
• rheumatoid arthritis,
• atopic dermatitis
• keratitis (inflamed cornea)

note: ciclosporin works by suppressing the cell-mediated immune response

Question 2

what are the contraindications for ciclosporin

Answer 2

• peri-ocular infection (if used in eye)

with systemic use:
abnormal renal function, uncontrolled hypertension, uncontrolled infections

Question 3

how does Pomelo juice interact with ciclosporin

Answer 3

it is predicted to INCREASE ciclosporin exposure

Question 4

how does purple grape juice interact with ciclosporin

Answer 4

it is is predicted to DECREASE  ciclosporin exposure.

Question 5

can ciclosporin be used during pregnancy + breastfeeding

Answer 5

no- avoid in both - it crosses the placenta

Question 6

what monitoring is needed for patients taking ciclosporin

Answer 6

Monitor blood concentration, liver function, potassium,

magnesium, blood lipids, kidney function, blood pressure

Question 7

how should ciclosporin be prescribed

Answer 7

must be prescribed by specific brand name due to changes in blood-ciclosporin concentration

Question 8

does ciclosporin have an ideal therapeutic range (dose)

Answer 8

no, monitor blood-ciclosporin concentration

Question 9

what are the symptoms of ciclosporin toxicity

Answer 9

• Tremor
• gingival hyperplasia (gum enlargement)
• hypertrichosis (excessive hair growth anywhere on the body)

Question 10

how many times a day is oral ciclosporin given

Answer 10

Total daily dose should be taken in 2 divided doses.