Immunosuppressant Agents
TERMS
□ cyclosporine (Sandimmune)
□ muromonab-CD3 (Orthoclone OKT3)
QUICK LOOK AT THE CHAPTER AHEAD
As the name implies, the immunosuppressant agents interfere with the immune response. They are used to prevent rejection in organ transplantation and in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. The older members of the group tend to suppress the entire immune response, and this in turn can leave the client exposed to any number of life-threatening infections as well as increase the risk for cancer. The newer members of the group have been developed to act more specifically on the immune system and have fewer adverse effects.
Table 67-1 Immunosuppressant Agents | ||||||||
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IMMUNOSUPPRESSANT AGENTS CLIENT TEACHINGFor All Immunosuppressant Agents
Protect skin with sunscreen and clothing when out in the sun.
Notify physician before taking any drugs when taking immunosuppressants.
Do not become pregnant while on drug therapy.
You are at high risk for infection, so wash your hands frequently; stay away from individuals who are ill and report sore throat, fever, or any symptoms of feeling unwell to physician.
Protect skin with sunscreen and clothing when out in the sun.
Notify physician before taking any drugs when taking immunosuppressants.
All side effects need to be reported immediately to physician.
Do not become pregnant while on drug therapy.T- and B-Cell Suppressors
Can take with food
Do not breast-feed
Excess hair will go away when you stop taking drug.
Drugs should be taken on same schedule each day to maintain drug levels.
Oral solutions should be mixed in glass not plastic and drunk immediately after mixing.
