What is Rapamune prescribed for?

Rapamune is used together with cyclosporine and a steroid medication to prevent your body from rejecting a kidney transplant.

Warnings for People taking Rapamune:

In order to prevent transplant rejection, Rapamune suppresses the body’s immune system. This also decreases the ability of the body’s immune system to protect against other diseases. While taking Rapamune there is an increased risk of infection and possible development of lymphoma (cancer of the immune system).

General Precautions to take when on Rapamune:

• Rapamune can increase your blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which may require treatment.
• Your doctor will monitor your kidney function and may adjust the dose of some of your immunosuppressant medications based on the test results.
• Women of childbearing age should begin using an effective birth control method before starting to take Rapamune, and continue during Rapamune treatment and for 12 weeks after stopping Rapamune.
• Before receiving any vaccinations, tell your doctor that you are taking Rapamune. Some vaccinations may be less effective during treatment with Rapamune, and certain vaccinations should be avoided.
• Avoid sources of infection. Rapamune weakens your body’s immune system and increases your risk of infection. Notify your doctor at the first sign of fever, chills, or a sore throat.

There are some things that you should tell your doctor when taking this medication:

• Because many medications can interact with Rapamune, review ALL the medications that you are taking with your doctor, including those you take without a prescription.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or if you are currently breast feeding.

What side effects can you expect when taking Rapamune? (This is only a partial list of side effects reported with Rapamune. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for a complete list of possible side effects and drug interactions..)

Rapamune is an immunosuppressant drug. Immunosuppressant drugs weaken your body’s immune system and increase your risk of developing infection and possibly lymphoma. (See “Special Warnings”).

Some other side effects that you may experience while on this medication are:

• Increased cholesterol level
• Increased lipid level
• High blood pressure
• Rash
• Acne
• Anemia
• Joint pain
• Diarrhea
• Decreased potassium level
• Decreased blood platelets

For more detailed information about Rapamune, ask your doctor.