Tacrolimus has been shown to cause adverse side effects in some patients. If these reactions become severe or do not go away after a day or two, seek medical attention right away.
Mild side effects reported from tacrolimus use include:
- Gas
- Heartburn
- Stomach pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Back pain
- Joint pain
- Stiffness
- Muscle weakness
More serious side effects include:
- Decreased urination frequency or amount
- Pain during urination
- Shortness of breath
- Rash
- Hives
- Itchy skin
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Swelling (usually in the hands, feet, arms, legs, or face)
- Seizures
- Confusion
- Loss of vision
- Mental depression
If you experience any of these side effects, seek medical attention immediately. These are symptoms of a possibly serious adverse reaction to this medication and require treatment right away.
As with all medication, inform your doctor of any medical conditions you are currently managing. Tell them about any and all medication, prescription drugs, and supplements you are taking before starting treatment with tacrolimus. Tacrolimus can interact with substances in the body, causing potentially serious adverse reactions.
Specifically, you should inform your health care provider of any antacids you have been taking, as well as if you have recently been taking cyclosporine before you start taking tacrolimus. Be sure to mention any herbal products you are using, including St. John’s wort.
Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had an irregular heartbeat, high levels of cholesterol, high or low levels of potassium in the blood, high or low levels of magnesium in the blood, high blood pressure, cystic fibrosis, or heart, kidney, liver, or lung disease.
In addition, let your doctor know if you are planning to become pregnant, are pregnant, or are currently breastfeeding before starting treatment with this medication. Call your provider if you become pregnant while you are taking tacrolimus.