Neoral (Cyclosporine)

What is Neoral?

Neoral is a medicine used in combination of corticosteroids and azathioprine. Its generic name is cyclosporine.

What is Neoral used for?

Neoral prevents the rejection of organ transplants. It is also used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. It can also be used for other conditions, as per the instructions of your doctor.

How does Neoral work?

Neoral works by suppressing the immune system. The exact working mechanism of this medicine is not known but it may block lymphocytes, which are commonly known as white blood cells.

How to use Neoral

Check the instructions given on the label of medicine to avoid any kind of side effects. Before using this medication, follow the instructions of your doctor carefully. Take Neoral on a daily basis with food. The medicine is usually taken twice daily.

If you are a sirolimus consumer, then take it in a gap of at least four hours after consuming Neoral. Consult your doctor if you have any doubt about the medication.

Neoral warnings and precautions

Do not use Neoral if you are allergic to any of its key ingredients. You are not advised to take this drug if you are pregnant or a lactating mother. Do not take Neoral if you are already taking prescribed or non-prescribed medicine, herbal products or dietary supplements. You must take suggestion from your doctor if you are sensitive to any kind of medicine, food, or other substances.

Avoid taking Neoral if you are suffering from liver, kidney, brain, or nerve problem. Do not consume the medicine if you take diet rich in potassium or if you have ever suffered from seizures. If you are already taking radiation treatment or phototherapy for psoriasis, then you must consult your doctor before starting the course of medication.

Never consume grapefruit and juice of grapefruit with Neoral.

What do I do if I have missed a Neoral dose?

If you have missed your Neoral dose, you should take it without any further delay. Miss the dose if it’s almost time to take the next dose and start your schedule again.

What do I do if I have taken a Neoral overdose?

If you have taken a Neoral overdose, you should immediately contact your local poison control center or take emergency medical aid.

Neoral interactions

There are many medicines that can interact with Neoral, so you must consult your doctor if you are already taking any prescribed or non-prescribed medicine. Multivitamin products, herbal and other dietary supplements are also expected to interact with Neoral.

Taking potassium-sparing diuretics along with Neoral can increase the risk of high potassium level in the blood. Do not take Bosentan with Neoral, as it will lead to side effects and toxic effects. Drugs like fluorouracil, metronidazole and Disulfiram should not be taken with Neoral as they can cause fast or uneven heartbeat, headache, respiratory problem, nausea or vomiting.

Neoral side effects

Common and less serious side effects of Neoral include coughing, burning sensations, acne, dizziness, mild headache, flushing, restlessness, nausea, vomiting and upset stomach.

Immediately seek medical attention if you experience severe side effects like severe allergic reactions, which include itching, breathing difficulty, skin rash, hives, tightness in chest or puffiness in mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat.

Other serious side effects of Neoral are changes in the appearance of a mole, black or tarry stool, blood in urine, chest pain, darkness of urine, fast or uneven heartbeat, gum disease, loss of coordination, mood changes and cramps in the muscles.