Prograf (tacrolimus) is an immunosuppressant treatment most commonly used following organ transplants to prevent the body from rejecting the new organ. In some situations patients may also buy Prograf to treat other disorders associated with overactive immune system function, including ulcerative colitis, fistulizing Crohn's disease, and some dermatological conditions.

In some locations Prograf is sold under the brand name Advagraf, both of which come as tablets, oral suspension, or fluid for injection or IV infusion. For dermatological applications patients should buy Prograf in topical ointment form, sold under the brand name Protopic.

In all formulations this is a very potent medication that can produce serious complications. It should only be used under direction of a physician, and physician instructions should be followed explicitly.

Taking Prograf

Prograf is most often administered following a kidney, liver, or heart transplant, though it is sometimes used for other organs as well. Treatment typically begins 6 to 24 hours after the transplant is complete, while the patient is still in the hospital. It may be used in children and adults. In all cases dosage will be highly individualized depending on a wide range of factors; this is not something that can be generalized.

While many patients are initially started on Prograf with IV infusion, conversion to tablets or oral suspension as soon as the patient is able to take these formulations is preferred. Tablets and oral suspension doses are typically taken every 12 hours. Tablets should not be crushed, split, dissolved, or otherwise damaged; patients should buy Prograf in an oral suspension if unable to swallow whole tablets.

Some patients experience disruptive gastric upset after taking a dose; in these cases taking each dose with food may help. However, the medication will be absorbed into the bloodstream differently depending on whether or not it is taken with food; in the interest of consistency, the decision to take with or without food should be made early in treatment and the chosen method be adhered to for the remaining duration of treatment.

Treatment typically lasts a minimum of one year, over which time dosage will be gradually reduced. Prograf may need to be taken longer.

Other Considerations

As mentioned above, this is a potent medication that significantly suppresses immune system activity. As such patients or caretakers need to be aware of the ongoing risks associated with immunosuppressant medications.

One of the bigger concerns is susceptibility to infection of all kinds; from picking up the common cold to infection of even the smallest wound. Patients will need to take care to avoid people, places and activities that increase risk of infection; individuals who are ill, public places where microbes are likely to be plentiful, and even routine activities like shaving or chopping food that entail risk of injury should be performed with extreme caution. Good hygiene is imperative. Patients are also advised to avoid individuals who have recently received live vaccinations, as they may be contagious.

Individuals treated with Prograf may develop high blood pressure, high blood glucose (diabetes), and electrolyte imbalances, all of which can cause additional complications. If possible these should be monitored for developing problems.

Patients planning to buy Prograf should be aware that the medication may increase risk for several types of cancer.

Increased sensitivity to sunlight may also be experienced. Extended sun exposure and tanning should be avoided. Protective clothing and sunblock should be utilized for even brief sun exposure.

Prograf is known to interact with a wide variety of other medications. Patients should avoid taking even over-the-counter medications and supplements unless its use has been explicitly approved by a doctor.

Throughout treatment patients or caretakers should be alert for any new symptoms and not hesitate to contact a doctor with any questions or concerns, no matter how trivial they may seem.

Better Health is Our Business

Kiwi Drug clients will need to a prescription to buy Prograf. Clients who have one will be given instructions to transfer it to us upon completing checkout. Clients who don't have one may be issued one through our online physician. Simply start checkout and answer the questions on the following page so our doctor can determine if you qualify.

Despite the savings offered by online pharmacies the cost of this medication may be daunting. Patients struggling to afford payment may want to look into local programs offering savings on vital medications; information on such programs are often found on the drug manufacturer's website or the official medication website. The availability and requirements of such programs vary greatly by region so we're unable to give more specific advice.

We're always happy to hear from you if you have any questions or need assistance with your order.