Cyclosporine for Lupus

Overview
Cyclosporine is a prescription drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis and prevent the rejection of transplanted organs. Cyclosporine is sometimes prescribed to treat lupus, especially in cases of lupus nephritis. Cyclosporine is sold under the brand names Gengraf, Neoral, and Sandimmune.

Cyclosporine is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD), a type of medication that suppresses the immune system and fights inflammation. Cyclosporine is believed to work by limiting the activity of immune cells that contribute to inflammation.

How do I take it?
Take Cyclosporine as prescribed, usually once or twice a day.

Cyclosporine comes in capsule and oral solution forms.

Side effects
The FDA-approved label for Cyclosporine lists common side effects including headache, acne, flushing, depression, insomnia, ear problems, pain or pressure in the face, tingling or burning in the extremities, increased hair growth, tremors, increased gum tissue growth, muscle or joint pain, growth of breast tissue in men, gas, heartburn, and diarrhea.

Rare but serious side effects listed for Cyclosporine include kidney damage, high blood pressure, and increased risk for some types of cancer.

For more details about this treatment, visit:

Cyclosporine – MedlinePlus
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601207.html

Immunosuppressive Medications – Johns Hopkins Lupus Center
https://www.hopkinslupus.org/lupus-treatment/lu...