Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride Injection and Sandimmune

• Generic Name: dexmedetomidine
• Dosage Forms: injection
• Other Brand Names: Precedex

Dexmedetomidine is a sedative that is used to sedate a patient who is under intensive medical care and needs a mechanical ventilator (breathing machine).

Before a ventilator is used, a breathing tube must be inserted through the mouth and into the patient's airway, a procedure called intubation. The tube is then attached to the ventilator, which pumps air slowly into the lungs to control the patient's breathing. Sedation with dexmedetomidine can help keep the patient relaxed and comfortable while the ventilator and tube are in place.

Dexmedetomidine is also used during anesthesia to get a patient ready for a surgery or other medical procedure.

Dexmedetomidine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

• Generic Name: cyclosporine
• Dosage Forms: capsule, injection, oral solution
• Other Brand Names: Sandimmune, Gengraf, Neoral, Sandimmune

Cyclosporine injection is given together with a steroid medicine to prevent the body from rejecting a transplanted organ (e.g., kidney, liver, or heart). It belongs to a group of medicines known as immunosuppressive agents.

When a patient receives an organ transplant, the body's white blood cells will try to get rid of (reject) the transplanted organ. Cyclosporine works by suppressing the immune system to prevent the white blood cells from trying to get rid of the transplanted organ.

Cyclosporine is a very strong medicine. It can cause side effects that can be very serious, such as high blood pressure, kidney problems, or liver problems. It may also decrease the body's ability to fight infections. You and your doctor should talk about the benefits this medicine will do as well as the risks of using it.

This medicine is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of a doctor.