Ciclosporin

An immunosuppressant drug used following transplant surgery. The drug reduces the risk of tissue rejection and the need for large doses of corticosteroid drugs. Ciclosporin may need to be taken indefinitely after a transplant. It is also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune disorders. Because ciclosporin suppresses the immune system, it increases the susceptibility to infection. Swelling of the gums and increased hair growth are fairly common. Ciclosporin may also cause kidney damage, and regular monitoring of kidney function is required.