Why are Immunosuppressants so Important?
Immunosuppressants block the immune system's
natural reaction to reject new, transplanted tissue.
T cells, the principal immune system cells that
react against foreign tissues, are kept at bay
by a carefully determined combination of immunosuppressants.
The transplanted patient needs to take antirejection
medication after transplant because a new organ
can cause antibodies to multiply, creating a rejection
episode.
In order to prevent rejection, transplant recipients
must follow their drug regimen exactly as prescribed,
in the right amount (dosage) and at the right
time. A constant flow of medication in the bloodstream
will help prevent rejection of the new organ.
Effective antirejection therapy balances two
key elements: effectiveness and side effects.
The drugs have to be strong enough to suppress
the body's natural inclination to reject the transplanted
organ, while causing minimal side effects to the
patient. Because everyone metabolizes medications
differently, each transplant recipient's drug
levels need to be carefully tailored.
Patients must return to the transplant clinic
to have their medication levels checked as often
as required. Transplant patients could experience
a rejection episode without even knowing it. That's
why it's important for transplant recipients to
stay in touch with their transplant nurse and
keep their clinic appointments. Based on the follow-up
test results, medication dosages may be adjusted.
Some tips on immunosuppressants for post-transplant
patients:
- Take your medication. Never skip a dose.
- Take your medications at the prescribed time.
- Understand when to take your drugs in relation
to food (whether to take before, during or after
your meals), because food can affect the absorption
of your medicines. Follow the guidelines your
doctor gives to you and be consistent about
when you take your medicine.
If you have additional questions about immunosuppressants,
call your transplant nurse or physician.
Revised by Kim
Olthoff, MD
Last updated February 2006
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