Patient Information. Department of Rheumatology. Ciclosporin. What is Ciclosporin? How should I take Ciclosporin?

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1 Ciclosporin

2 Department of Rheumatology Ciclosporin Ciclosporin is in a family of drugs called the Disease modifying ant-rheumatic drugs DMARDS. Whilst your specialist will choose the one he feels best to treat you at the time based on research and extensive knowledge of the drug you will always have the choice to discuss other treatment options and alternative therapies. What is Ciclosporin? Ciclosporin is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and sometimes psoriasis. It is also given to people having transplant surgery. It works by dampening down the body s immune system. How should I take Ciclosporin? Ciclosporin capsules are usually taken twice a day. Swallow them whole with plenty of water. The dose you take will depend on your body weight, your doctor will advise you how much to take. If you miss a dose don t worry, take your next dose when it is due. Do not double up on the dose. Do not take Ciclosporin with grapefruit juice or eat grapefruit one hour before taking Ciclosprin. How long will it take Ciclosporin to work? It may take several weeks up to four months, before you see the full beneficial effect of the Ciclosporin. You will be given your first prescription from the hospital that will usually last for two weeks. A further prescription should be obtained from your GP. Will I have any side effects? Most patients have no side effects. Side effects include, a possible rise in the blood pressure and a usually harmless effect on the kidneys. These side effects will usually improve if the dose of Ciclosporin is reduced. Other side effects include; nausea (feeling sick) headaches, abdominal discomfort, burning sensations in the hands and feet, mild tremor. Version 1. May 2008 Page 1 of 4

3 These side effects are usually mild and will usually settle down when the treatment continues. Occasionally Ciclosporin may cause the growth of fine downy hair on the sides of the face. Do I need any special tests while on Ciclosporin? Yes, because Ciclosporin may affect some of the blood pressure and kidneys. You will need to have your blood pressure and blood tests done every two weeks to begin with. The blood pressure checks can usually be done at your own GP s surgery. When you are settled on the Ciclosporin the blood pressure and blood tests will be checked every month. It is you responsibility to have your blood tests. In order for us to receive the results from your blood tests, you will have to have the blood test at any of the following centres: Russell s Hall Hospital: Monday to Friday 08.30am to 7.30 pm or Saturday 9.30am to 11.30am. No appointments required. Corbett Hospital: Monday to Friday 08.30am to 4.30pm. No appointments required. Netherton Health Centre: Appointment required, ring Cross Street Health Centre: Appointment required, ring Lady s Walk Clinic: Appointment required, ring Can I take my other medication with the Ciclosporin? Ciclosporin is not a painkiller so you should carry on taking your usual painkillers if you need them. Some medicines may interact with Ciclosporin, so always tell any doctor who is prescribing for you that you take Ciclosporin. If you are buying over the counter preparations inform the pharmacist that you take Ciclosporin. Can I have vaccination injections while taking Ciclosporin? You should avoid live vaccines. These include polio and rubella (German measles). You can have your annual flu vaccination. Always let your doctor know that you take Ciclosporin before having a vaccination. Version 1. May 2008 Page 2 of 4

4 Can I drink alcohol whilst taking Ciclosporin? You can drink alcohol within reason but we recommend that you stay within the government guidelines. Does Ciclosporin affect pregnancy? Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should not take Ciclosporin. If you are planning a pregnancy or become pregnant you should discuss this with your doctor. Other treatments You always have the choice when taking any medication prescribed in Rheumatology. There are alternative treatments that some people find useful and leaflets provided by the Arthritis Research Council are available in our clinics. Over the counter medications may be used alone or in combination with prescribed medication you are taking however, you are always advised to discuss with your doctor who has prescribed before taking. Medication bought over the counter may help to control your pain but not always the condition. Remember, whilst you are on this medication, it is your responsibility to ensure that you have regular blood tests and it is important that you do not miss any of these tests. If your hospital appointment is rescheduled, contact the Rheumatology Helpline if you need more blood forms. If you have any problems or questions, contact the Rheumatology Helpline on or contact your pharmacist. Please keep this information in a safe place. Patient and Professional Organisations with Useful Links Arthritis Care Tel: Arthritis Care: Welcome to Arthritis Care care.org.uk NHS Direct Tel: Version 1. May 2008 Page 3 of 4

5 Dudley Group of Hospitals NHS Trust Tel: (switchboard) The Rheumatology Department Tel: (Helpline) umatology/default.asp Produced by the Department of Rheumatology Dudley Group of Hospitals NHS Trust Originator: Rainer Klocke Consultant in Rheumatology Updated: Jan 2008 Review: Jan 2012 Version 1. May 2008 Page 4 of 4