FK 506 - an investigational immunosuppressant

Article Abstract:

FK 506 is a drug that suppresses the immune system and is now being tested for use in preventing the rejection of transplanted organs. This new drug is similar in chemical characteristics to cyclosporine, an immunosuppressant agent. FK 506 is produced by the microorganism Streptomyces tsukubaensis. Twenty-five percent of the drug is absorbed from the digestive tract. It is metabolized in the liver and excreted in the bile, a secretion of the liver. Both FK 506 and cyclosporine interfere with the DNA translation, or the processing of genetic information by the cell. Studies show that FK 506 is effective in preventing liver transplant rejection in patients who cannot tolerate or do not respond to standard immunosuppressive treatment with cyclosporine. FK 506 also has been shown to lead to better improvement over cyclosporine in survival rates of liver transplant recipients and their grafts. Other studies suggest that FK 506 may also be effective in suppressing immunity in patients with kidney, heart, pancreatic islet cell, and small intestine transplants. The adverse effects of FK 506 include toxic effects on the kidney and nervous system, diabetes, high blood pressure, and infection. The need for corticosteroids may be reduced in patients treated with FK 506, and blood levels of cholesterol are likely to decline. Disorders involving proliferation of lymphoid tissue may develop after treatment with immunosuppressive agents. The recommended dose of FK 506 is discussed. Although preliminary studies suggest that FK 506 is effective in suppressing the immune system in liver transplant recipients, its effectiveness and safety must be studied further. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Complications and side effects, Transplantation of organs, tissues, etc., Organ transplantation, Tissue transplantation, Transplantation, Immunosuppressive agents, FK 506

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New monoclonal antibodies to prevent transplant rejection

Article Abstract:

The FDA has approved two monoclonal antibodies that prevent rejection of a kidney transplant. Basiliximab is marketed under the name Simulect and daclizumab under the name Zenapax. They block the binding of interleukin-2 to its receptor on T lymphocytes. The drugs must be used in addition to cyclosporine and corticosteroids. Both have been shown to reduce short-term rejection rates but long-term graft survival rates were similar in patients who received the drug and those who received a placebo.

Health aspects, Product/Service Evaluation, Monoclonal antibodies, Simulect (Medication), Zenapax (Medication)

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Sirolimus (Rapamune) for transplant rejection

Article Abstract:

The FDA has approved the drug sirolimus for preventing organ rejection in kidney transplant recipients. Sold under the trade name Rapamune, it is structurally similar to tacrolimus. Both drugs suppress the immune system, preventing it from attacking the transplanted organ. It should be used in combination with cyclosporine and corticosteroids. However, doctors may be able to reduce the dose of cyclosporine when using it in combination with sirolimus.

Kidneys, Kidney transplantation, Rapamycin

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