Description
Tacrolimus, an orally available macrolide calcineurin inhibitor, is an immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory agent. It diminishes the ability of calcineurin to dephosphorylate and translocate the nuclear factor of activated T cells (NF-AT) that initiates gene transcription for the synthesis of inflammatory cytokines such as tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-2 (IL-2), and interferon-γ (IFN-γ). Because of its properties, tacrolimus is used to prevent rejection of organ transplants and has been studied as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Adverse events associated with the use of tacrolimus include hypertension, tremor, diabetes and increased creatinine levels. These adverse reactions have been observed in kidney transplant patients as well as RA patients although to a lesser extent in the latter group.
Indications
Measurement of tacrolimus level is used to monitor the dose of the drug in order to avoid its toxic effect and maintain the desired therapeutic effect.
Sample Type, Quantity & Conditions
2 ml EDTA Whole Blood Stability: 7 Days at 2-8 °C 6 Months at -10 °C or Colder
Special Precautions
Trough levels should be drawn 12 Hrs post-dose.
Normal Range
Therapeutic Range: 0 - 14 Day Transplantation: 15.0 - 20.0 ng/mL 15 - 28 Day Transplantation: 10.0 - 15.0 ng/mL 4 Weeks - 6 Month Transplantation: 7.0 - 10.0 ng/mL > 6 Months Transplantation 5.0 - 7.0 ng/mL
