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- General: Side effects of treatment depend on the specific dose and medication, as well as the overall health of the patient. Some of the most common side effects include high blood pressure, increased hair growth, loss of appetite, vomiting, and upset stomach. Some patients may develop serious side effects, including kidney problems or decreased levels of red or white blood cells. Patients should tell their healthcare providers if they experience any of these symptoms.
- Cancer: Patients who take immunosuppressants long–term (such as organ transplant recipients) have an increased risk of developing certain cancers, especially skin cancer and cancer of the lymph nodes (lymphoma). To help avoid the risk of skin cancer, patients should wear a sunblock with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. The sunblock should offer protection against both ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B rays. Patients should look for products that are PABA–free. PABA is a chemical that is found in many sunblocks, and it has shown to cause irritation in sensitive patients. Tanning beds should be avoided. There is currently no known method of prevention for lymphoma.
- Infections: Since immunosuppressants weaken the immune system, patients have an increased risk of developing infections. Patients should regularly wash their hands with soap and water. Avoiding close contact with individuals who have contagious illnesses may help reduce the risk of contracting infections. Patients should consult their healthcare providers if they develop symptoms of an infection, such as fever, sore throat, or enlarged lymph nodes.
- Potassium levels: Some immunosuppressants, including cyclosporine (Neoral ®, Sandimmune ®, Gengraf ®), have been shown to increase potassium levels in the blood. Therefore, patients should minimize or avoid foods that have high amounts of potassium such as bananas, tomatoes, dried fruit, and low sodium salt. Patients should not take potassium supplements with immunosuppressants.
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