Psorid 25mg Cap

Psorid 25MG CAP

Psorid 25MG CAP is an immunosuppressant medication manufactured by Eris Lifesciences Limited.

• Composition: Each capsule contains 25 mg of Cyclosporine. Cyclosporine works by suppressing the immune system, specifically inhibiting the activity of T-cells, which are crucial in immune responses.

• Uses: Psorid 25MG CAP is primarily used to prevent organ rejection following various transplant procedures, including kidney, liver, heart, pancreas, lungs, skin, bone marrow, and stem cell transplants. It is also prescribed for the treatment of severe psoriasis, severe active rheumatoid arthritis, and nephrotic syndrome, especially when other treatments have been ineffective.

• Dosage and Administration: The capsule is taken orally, typically once or twice daily, or as directed by a healthcare professional. It should be swallowed whole with water and not be crushed, chewed, or opened. Psorid 25MG CAP can be taken with or without food, but it is important to maintain a consistent administration time each day. Dosage is highly individualized based on the patient's condition, weight, age, and response to treatment. Regular monitoring of blood cyclosporine levels is essential.

• Side Effects: Common side effects may include headache, tremors, high blood pressure (hypertension), nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, kidney problems (renal dysfunction), increased hair growth, and swollen or tender gums. More serious side effects can include an increased risk of infections, liver damage, and a higher risk of certain cancers, such as lymphoma and skin cancer.

• Precautions: Alcohol consumption should be avoided due to potential for increased dizziness, drowsiness, and other side effects. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor as the medicine may be unsafe during pregnancy and passes into breast milk. Patients with liver or kidney disease, high blood pressure, or a history of epilepsy require careful monitoring and potential dose adjustments. It's crucial to inform your doctor about all existing medical conditions and other medications, supplements, or herbal products being taken to avoid adverse drug interactions. Do not abruptly stop taking this medication.

• Storage: Store Psorid 25MG CAP in a cool and dry place, protected from sunlight, at temperatures below 30°C (ideally between 10°C to 25°C). Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date.

What is PSORID 25MG CAP used for?

PSORID 25MG CAP, containing Cyclosporine, is primarily used as an immunosuppressant to prevent the body from rejecting transplanted organs, such as kidneys, liver, or heart, after surgery. It is typically used in combination with other medications for this purpose. Additionally, it is prescribed for severe cases of plaque psoriasis and severe active rheumatoid arthritis when other treatments have not been effective.

How does PSORID 25MG CAP work?

PSORID 25MG CAP works by suppressing the immune system. Its active ingredient, Cyclosporine, belongs to a class of drugs known as calcineurin inhibitors. It binds to a protein called cyclophilin within T-lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell), forming a complex that inhibits calcineurin. This inhibition prevents the activation of T-cells by blocking the transcription of interleukin-2 (IL-2), a cytokine crucial for T-cell proliferation and immune responses. By dampening the immune system's ability to attack foreign cells, it helps prevent organ rejection and reduces inflammation in autoimmune conditions.

What is the usual dosage of PSORID 25MG CAP?

The dosage of PSORID 25MG CAP is highly individualized and determined by a doctor based on the patient's weight, medical condition, and response to treatment, with regular monitoring of blood levels.

• For prevention of transplant rejection: Doses typically start higher (e.g., 12 to 15 mg/kg/day, divided into two doses) before or immediately after transplantation and are then adjusted for maintenance.
• For psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis: The starting dose is usually around 2.5 milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) of body weight per day, divided into two doses. This may be adjusted by the doctor, up to a maximum of 4 mg/kg/day, depending on the response. It is crucial to take the medicine exactly as prescribed, at the same time each day, and to avoid switching brands without a doctor's permission, as different brands may not work the same way.

What are the possible side effects of PSORID 25MG CAP?

Cyclosporine can cause various side effects, ranging from common to more serious. Common side effects include:

• High blood pressure
• Increased hair growth (hirsutism)
• Kidney problems or decreased kidney function
• Headache
• Tremors or shaking
• Swollen or tender gums
• Stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Increased risk of infections

More serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include:

• Symptoms of a serious nervous system problem (e.g., seizures, confusion, vision problems, unusual drowsiness)
• Signs of kidney injury (e.g., decrease in urine amount, swelling of ankles, hands, or feet)
• Signs of liver injury (e.g., right upper belly pain, loss of appetite, yellowing skin or eyes)
• Symptoms of high potassium levels (e.g., muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat)
• Increased risk of certain cancers, especially skin cancer and lymphoma.

Regular monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, and cyclosporine blood levels is essential to manage and minimize side effects.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: Cyclosporine is generally considered a Category C pregnancy drug, meaning animal studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans. While use during pregnancy may increase the risk of preterm birth, it does not appear to cause birth defects. It is important to discuss potential risks and benefits with your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding: Cyclosporine can pass into breast milk and may be concentrated in it, potentially causing immune suppression in infants or having unknown effects on growth or carcinogenesis. Traditionally, breastfeeding was advised to be avoided. However, some guidelines and experts now consider cyclosporine compatible with breastfeeding at the lowest effective dose, provided the infant is monitored. Discuss with your healthcare provider to determine the safest approach for you and your baby.

Can it be taken with other medications?

Cyclosporine has many clinically significant drug interactions. Taking it with certain medications can alter cyclosporine blood levels, leading to increased toxicity or reduced effectiveness. Medications that can increase cyclosporine levels (and risk of side effects) include:

• Certain antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin, clarithromycin)
• Certain antifungals (e.g., fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole)
• Calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem, nicardipine, verapamil)
• Glucocorticoids (e.g., methylprednisolone)
• Oral contraceptives
• Grapefruit or grapefruit juice.

Medications that can decrease cyclosporine levels (and effectiveness) include:

• Certain anticonvulsants (e.g., carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin)
• Rifampicin
• Terbinafine.

Co-administration with other drugs can increase the risk of specific side effects:

• Increased risk of kidney damage: NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, naproxen), certain antibiotics (e.g., gentamicin), antifungals (e.g., amphotericin B), colchicine, tacrolimus.
• Increased immunosuppressive effects and infection risk: Other immunosuppressants (e.g., azathioprine, methotrexate, sirolimus, tacrolimus), biologics.

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription, over-the-counter medications, herbal products (like St. John's Wort), and supplements you are taking before starting PSORID 25MG CAP.

What precautions should be taken?

• Sun Exposure: PSORID 25MG CAP can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and increase the risk of skin cancer. Limit sun exposure, wear protective clothing, and use high SPF sunscreen. Avoid sun lamps, tanning beds, or tanning booths.
• Infections: As an immunosuppressant, it lowers your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid close contact with sick people and report any signs of infection (e.g., fever, sore throat, chills) to your doctor immediately. Do not receive live vaccines without your doctor's approval.
• Blood Pressure and Kidney Function: Regular monitoring of blood pressure and kidney function through blood and urine tests is essential, as cyclosporine can cause high blood pressure and kidney damage.
• Dental Care: Tenderness, swelling, or bleeding of the gums can occur. Maintain good oral hygiene with regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.
• Existing Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have liver disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, active infections, a history of cancer, low magnesium levels, or high potassium or uric acid levels.
• Alcohol: High alcohol intake can seriously affect blood levels of cyclosporine and may increase side effects.
• Driving: This medication may affect your coordination, reaction time, or judgment. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of PSORID 25MG CAP, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects. If you miss multiple doses, contact your doctor or healthcare team for advice.

How should it be stored?

PSORID 25MG CAP (Cyclosporine capsules) should be stored in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not refrigerate or freeze the capsules. Keep the medicine out of reach of children. Discard any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. If you are using the oral solution form, follow specific instructions regarding mixing and storage, and discard it after two months of opening the bottle or after the expiration date.