Prograf Intravenous and Zostrix

• 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: capsaicin topical
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Capsicum Oleoresin, Capsin, Capzasin Back and Body, Capzasin-HP, Capzasin-P, Castiva Warming, Icy Hot PM, Icy Hot with Capsaicin, Menthac Arthritis Cream with Capsaicin, Qutenza, Salonpas Gel-Patch, Salonpas Pain Patch with Capsaicin, Sloan's Liniment, Trixaicin, Zostrix, Capzasin-P, Theragen HP, Zostrix Arthritis Pain Relief, Zostrix Foot Pain Relief, Zostrix HP

Capsaicin is the active ingredient in chili peppers that makes them hot. Capsaicin is used in medicated creams and lotions to relieve muscle or joint pain.

Capsaicin used on the body causes a sensation of heat that activates certain nerve cells. With regular use of capsaicin, this heating effect reduces the amount of substance P, a chemical that acts as a pain messenger in the body.

Zostrix is used for temporary relief of muscle or joint pain caused by strains, sprains, arthritis, bruising, or backaches. This medicine is also used to treat nerve pain (neuralgia) in people who have had herpes zoster, or "shingles."

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