Medication After Transplant

Be sure to tell your transplant team about every medicine you are taking whether a doctor prescribed it or not. Transplant medications are very powerful and can interact with other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Therefore, it is very important that you take your medication exactly as prescribed and discuss any changes in medication with your transplant team.

Do:

	Keep a record of the names of all the medications you are taking (eg, trade/brand, generic/chemical), as well as the dose (number of milligrams [mg]) and dosage (number of tablets/capsules per day) of each
	Take all medication exactly as directed
	Notify your transplant team if you've missed a dose
	Keep medication in a dry place, away from heat or light
	Keep medication in original container and out of the reach of children
	Report any side effects to your transplant team
	Notify your transplant team if you notice a change in your medication
	Maintain a monthly, weekly, or daily calendar to remind yourself to take your medications
	Make your own medication schedule  Click here >>
	Carefully inspect your product package and prescription before you leave the pharmacy counter. That way you can be sure you have received the exact medication your doctor intended for you and your kidney

Do not:

	Stop taking medication because of side effects or because you "feel fine"
	Change your dosing schedule on your own
	Take a double dose of medication. If you missed the previous dose take only the prescribed dose and tell your transplant team about the missed dose
	Take any medication not prescribed by your transplant team—including over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, or natural/herbal medicineswithout checking with the team first
	Keep medication in a bathroom cabinet, where it can be exposed to moisture

Finally, if you do suffer from side effects, try to focus on the benefits of your medication rather than the drawbacks. Everything your doctor prescribes will play an important role in keeping you healthy after your transplant. Remember: Side effects can be managed by you and your transplant team. So think positively!

	What To Expect In The Weeks After Your Kidney Transplant >>  Medication After Transplant >>  Protecting Your Kidney Transplant >>  Avoiding Infection >>  Diet and Nutrition >>  Exercise >>  Talking To Your Doctor or Transplant Team >>  Additional Health Information >>

Click here for complete prescribing information, which includes contraindications, warnings, precautions, and adverse events.

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