Information about Rapamune (Sirolimus)
Rapamune, containing the active ingredient sirolimus, is an immunosuppressive medication used primarily to prevent organ rejection in transplant patients. It works by blocking the mTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin) pathway, which plays a key role in cell growth, proliferation, and survival. By suppressing immune response, Rapamune helps prevent the body from rejecting transplanted organs such as the kidney, liver, and heart.
Product Highlights
- Rapamune is primarily used to prevent organ rejection in individuals who have undergone a kidney transplant. It is often used in combination with other immunosuppressive drugs to reduce the risk of rejection.
- It may also be used in combination with other medications to prevent rejection in other organ transplants, such as heart or liver transplants, though it is not approved for all types of organ transplantation.
- In some cases, Rapamune may be used off-label for certain cancers, particularly in cases where mTOR inhibitors are indicated.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Rapamune helps prevent rejection of transplanted organs, particularly in kidney transplant patients.
- By inhibiting mTOR, Rapamune reduces the activation of T-cells, which are responsible for attacking the transplanted organ.
- It can be used alone or in combination with other immunosuppressive drugs for better management of transplant rejection.
- In transplant patients, Rapamune significantly decreases the chances of acute organ rejection, improving long-term graft survival.
Direction of Use
- Oral tablets and oral solution
Typical dosing
- Initial dose typically starts with 6 mg as a loading dose, followed by a maintenance dose of 2 mg daily.
- The exact dose will depend on the patient’s condition, response to treatment, and other medications they are taking.
Administration
- Tablets: Take once daily with or without food, at the same time each day to help remember.
- Oral solution: Should be taken with a graduated oral syringe or dropper to ensure correct dosage.
- The oral solution should not be mixed with other liquids or taken with food or drink to avoid interference with absorption.
- Safety Concerns
- Common side effects
- Mouth ulcers
- Increased cholesterol and triglyceride levels
- Diarrhea and nausea
- Edema (swelling)
- Headache and dizziness
- Acne or other skin issues
Serious side effects
- As an immunosuppressive agent, sirolimus can weaken the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections, including opportunistic infections.
- Sirolimus can cause kidney toxicity, particularly when combined with other nephrotoxic drugs.
- Serious lung issues, including difficulty breathing, can occur in some patients.
- Elevated liver enzymes and other signs of liver dysfunction.
- Long-term use of Rapamune may increase the risk of certain cancers due to its effect on immune function.
Drug interactions
- These can increase sirolimus blood levels and raise the risk of side effects.
- These can decrease the effectiveness of sirolimus by lowering its blood levels.
- When combined with other immunosuppressive drugs, the risk of infections and certain side effects may be higher.
Avoid Rapamune (Sirolimus) If
- Patients with a known allergy to sirolimus or any of the inactive ingredients should avoid using Rapamune.
- Rapamune should be avoided in patients with severe liver impairment, as it can exacerbate liver dysfunction.
