Prograf vs advagraf

[Amyb93]

Hi everyone!

I hope everyone is well. Lately my tacro blood levels have been all over the place. My doctor mentionned that they might switch me to Advagraf instead of my Prograf.

I was wondering if anyone has made the switch and seen a difference in the side effects? Like hair loss and tremors.

Thank you and happy holidays!

Amy

[AndrewT]

Dear Amy,

I have not 'Made A Switch', I've always been on Advagraf- since my Transplant, in July 2013. I'm led to believe, that these two 'Drugs'- whilst both being Tacrolimus- are in a different Form. Apparently, they are Not, 'Directly Transferable' (in other words you can't just Switch, as you chose.). That said Both Drugs CAN be used, by Transplant Patients... I'm tempted, to say, 'You Tell Me'????

Realistically speaking whichever 'Form', of Tacrolimus suits you, is surely the best option. If you are not 'Getting On', with one form, then- I guess- it makes 'sense' to try the other.

As regards the 'Shakes' this is a, well known, Side Effect of Tacrolimus- of any form- but thankfully 'tends to reduce, with time'.

Rest assured that your Doctors/ Consultants WILL keep, a very, close 'Eye' on you Amy- Especially if 'they' have changed a Drug. I'm sure that you, will be Fine but, if you have ANY further Concerns, then DO 'Speak' to your Transplant Team.

You will be 'Fine', I'm Sure.

AndrewT

[LisaSnow]

Did they find out why your trough level isn't stable?

[Amyb93 in reply to LisaSnow]

They are still fluctuating and the increase tacro by only 0.5 and it goes too high so they mentionned advagraf and said that sometimes it helps stabilize the tacro levels for some patients. I think they will wait till january to reevaluate. I know advagraf is a slow release tacro so i’m assuming side effects are the same or very similar, but a little goping the slow down my hair loss. But the important thing it to protect that new kidney!

[Thebeanster]

I made the switch to Envarus XR and my tac levels have had greater consistency with my tac levels.

Kevin