Psorid 100 Mg Capsule (5 Cap)

Psorid 100 mg Capsule

Name:

• Brand Name: Psorid 100 mg Capsule
• Common Name: Cyclosporine

Composition: Each capsule contains 100 mg of Cyclosporine, an active ingredient belonging to a class of medications known as immunosuppressants.

Uses: Psorid 100 mg Capsule is primarily used to prevent organ rejection after transplantation, including kidney, liver, heart, lung, pancreas, skin, bone marrow, and stem cell transplants. It is also prescribed for the treatment of severe autoimmune conditions such as:

• Psoriasis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Nephrotic syndrome
• Atopic dermatitis (eczema) and endogenous uveitis (including Behçet's uveitis)

Dosage and Administration: This medicine is typically taken orally, usually twice daily (morning and evening), or as directed by a healthcare professional. Capsules should be swallowed whole with water and not crushed, chewed, or opened. It can be taken with or without food, but consistency in timing is crucial to maintain stable drug levels in the blood. Do not alter the prescribed dose or discontinue the medication without consulting your doctor.

Side Effects: Common side effects include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, high blood pressure, tremors, increased hair growth (hypertrichosis), and gum enlargement (gingival hypertrophy). Serious side effects can include kidney and liver damage, increased susceptibility to infections, and an elevated risk of certain cancers, particularly skin cancer. Report any signs of severe infection, unexplained bleeding, bruising, or jaundice to your doctor immediately.

Precautions: Inform your doctor about any history of liver or kidney disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, or cancer. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor kidney and liver function, blood pressure, and drug levels. Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as it can increase drug levels and the risk of side effects. This medicine is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Limit sun exposure and use high SPF sunscreen due to an increased risk of skin cancer.

Storage: Store Psorid 100 mg Capsules in their original packaging in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and excessive moisture, typically below 30°C. Keep this medicine out of the reach and sight of children and pets. Do not use the medicine after the expiry date.

What is Psorid 100 mg Capsule used for?

Psorid 100 mg Capsule, which contains the active ingredient cyclosporine, is an immunosuppressant medication used for several conditions. It is primarily prescribed to prevent organ rejection in patients who have received kidney, liver, or heart transplants. It is also used to treat severe active rheumatoid arthritis when other medications have not been effective, and for severe plaque psoriasis in adults who have not responded to other systemic therapies.

How does Psorid 100 mg Capsule work?

Psorid 100 mg Capsule works by suppressing the immune system. The active ingredient, cyclosporine, decreases the activity of lymphocytes, particularly T-cells, which are types of white blood cells involved in immune responses. It achieves this by forming a complex that inhibits calcineurin, a protein involved in T-cell activation. This action reduces the production of inflammatory cytokines like interleukin 2 (IL-2), preventing the immune system from attacking transplanted organs or causing inflammation in autoimmune conditions such as psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis.

What is the usual dosage for Psorid 100 mg Capsule?

The dosage of Psorid 100 mg Capsule is highly individualized and determined by your doctor based on your body weight, the transplanted organ (if applicable), and your blood levels of the medication. For conditions like psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis, a typical starting dosage is often 2.5 milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) of body weight per day, divided into two doses, with a maximum dose generally not exceeding 4 mg/kg per day. It is crucial to take this medication at the same time(s) each day, consistently, and exactly as prescribed. Different brands of cyclosporine may not be interchangeable, so always use the specific type your doctor has prescribed.

What are the possible side effects of Psorid 100 mg Capsule?

Common side effects can include high blood pressure, kidney problems, increased hair growth (hypertrichosis), swollen or tender gums (gingival hyperplasia), headache, tremors or shakiness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, fatigue, and increased skin sensitivity to sunlight. More serious side effects, which require immediate medical attention, include an increased risk of infections and certain cancers (such as lymphoma or skin cancer), liver injury, high potassium levels, hemolytic anemia, seizures, confusion, and vision problems.

Is Psorid 100 mg Capsule safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: Psorid (cyclosporine) should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk. It may increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight, though it does not appear to cause birth defects. It is recommended that women of childbearing potential discuss the potential risks with their doctor.

Breastfeeding: Cyclosporine is excreted into breast milk and has traditionally been advised to be avoided during breastfeeding due to concerns about potential infant immune suppression, growth retardation, or carcinogenesis. While some studies suggest minimal infant exposure and no apparent adverse effects, close monitoring of the infant is recommended if breastfeeding. The decision to breastfeed while on this medication should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider, weighing the importance of the drug to the mother against potential risks to the infant. Some formulations may contain alcohol, which should also be considered.

Can Psorid 100 mg Capsule be taken with other medications?

Psorid 100 mg Capsule has many significant drug interactions. Taking it with certain antibiotics, antifungals, anti-inflammatory drugs, or other immunosuppressants can affect kidney function or alter cyclosporine levels in your body. Medications such as calcium channel blockers, certain antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin), and oral contraceptives can increase cyclosporine levels, while anticonvulsants (e.g., carbamazepine) can decrease them. You should avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as it can significantly increase cyclosporine levels and lead to adverse effects. Also, avoid large doses of aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and live vaccines. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as any herbal products or supplements you are taking, to avoid harmful interactions.

What precautions should be taken while taking Psorid 100 mg Capsule?

It is very important to have regular doctor visits for blood and urine tests to monitor your progress, blood pressure, kidney function, and cyclosporine levels. You will have an increased risk of infections, so avoid close contact with sick individuals and report any signs of infection (like fever or sore throat) immediately. Due to an increased risk of skin cancer, limit sun exposure, wear protective clothing, use high-SPF sunscreen, and avoid sun lamps or tanning beds. If you are being treated for psoriasis, do not combine Psorid with PUVA, UVB, methotrexate, coal tar, or radiation therapy. Do not stop taking the medication abruptly, as this can lead to serious complications. This medication may affect your coordination or reaction time, so exercise caution when driving or operating machinery. Maintain good oral hygiene and have regular dental check-ups, as gum swelling can occur. It is advisable to carry a medical alert identification.

What happens if a dose of Psorid 100 mg Capsule is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose (e.g., typically within 3 hours or if the next dose is due within 12 hours, depending on your specific regimen), skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects and be dangerous. If you miss multiple doses or are regularly missing doses, contact your healthcare provider for advice.

How should Psorid 100 mg Capsule be stored?

Psorid 100 mg Capsules should be stored at room temperature, typically between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F). Keep the medication away from direct sunlight, excess heat, and moisture. Store it in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Do not refrigerate or freeze the liquid formulation of cyclosporine, as it may gel, though it can still be used after warming to room temperature. Any unused oral solution should be disposed of two months after opening the bottle or after the expiration date, whichever comes first.