Cyclosporine is a drug that decreases your body's natural defenses. It may be prescribed to increase the chance that your transplanted organ will not be rejected or as a treatment for autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis.
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The Test
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Cyclosporine testing is performed to determine if the drug has reached therapeutic levels and to be sure it has not reached the point of toxicity.
Peak
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Peak levels (drug levels tested on a blood sample drawn approximately two hours after a dose is given) indicate if the correct dose of cyclosporine is being administered.
Trough
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Trough levels (drug levels tested shortly before the next dose is given) are used to determine if enough cyclosporine remains in your system between doses to be effective.
Testing Frequency
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Cyclosporine levels may be ordered on a daily basis at the beginning of treatment, and will then be needed less frequently when a dosing regimen has been established.
Length of Treatment
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If you have received a transplant, you may be prescribed cyclosporine for several years. If you take cyclosporine as treatment for an autoimmune disease, you will likely be prescribed the drug in 12-week intervals to avoid toxicity.
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