title: Medication review: FK 506.
abstract: Overall, the absolute rate of clinical rejection in FK 506 patients is only slightly lower than with current standard therapies, but fewer steroid boluses, steroid recycles, and OKT 3 courses were needed as compared to CyA patients. FK 506 has not significantly affected allograft or patient survival or the incidence of infection as compared to CyA. It does have the benefit of allowing for the potential elimination or reduction in dose of azathioprine and prednisone. The majority of information available on FK 506 is generated by the sole human clinical trial site in Pittsburgh. Far more data from other clinical trial sites will be essential to finalize information on dosing, side effects, and drug monitoring for renal transplant recipients. The role of FK 506 in renal transplantation has yet to be well defined. The frequency and severity of side effects produced by this drug will be major determinants in its long-term usefulness for renal transplant recipients.
authors.forename: M J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Holechek
mesh_terms: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000075202:Contraindications; D004347:Drug Interactions; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016377:Organ Transplantation / Q000451:nursing*; D016559:Tacrolimus; D014181:Transplantation Immunology
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D016559:Tacrolimus