Prograf Intravenous and Vyndamax

• Generic Name: tacrolimus
• Dosage Forms: capsule, gelatin coated; injection, solution
• Other Brand Names: Prograf, Astagraf XL, Envarsus XR, Hecoria

Tacrolimus injection is used together with other medicines to prevent the body from rejecting a transplanted organ (eg, kidney, liver, or heart). This medicine may be used with steroids, azathioprine, or mycophenolate mofetil. Tacrolimus 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. Tacrolimus works by suppressing the immune system to prevent the white blood cells from trying to get rid of the transplanted organ.

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

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

• Generic Name: tafamidis
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Vyndamax, Vyndaqel

Vyndamax affects a protein called transthyretin (TTR, made primarily in the liver). Transthyretin-mediated amyloidosis (ATTR) is a condition in which abnormal deposits of TTR protein build-up in many parts of the body, interfering with normal function. A build-up of TTR in the heart can lead to heart failure.

People with hereditary ATTR amyloidosis have a DNA mutation that can be passed from one generation to the next. People with wild-type ATTR amyloidosis do not have abnormal DNA and cannot pass on the condition.

Vyndamax is used in adults with hereditary or wild type ATTR to treat cardiomyopathy (damage of the heart muscle) caused by a build-up of TTR.

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