What is astagraf xl?

See the DrugPatentWatch profile for astagraf

What is Astagraf XL Used For?

Astagraf XL is a brand name medication that contains the active ingredient tacrolimus, an immunosuppressant drug. It is used to prevent organ rejection in people who have received a kidney transplant [1].

What Happens if Astagraf XL is Stopped Suddenly?

Stopping Astagraf XL abruptly can lead to increased risk of organ rejection and graft failure. Patients should discuss tapering off the medication with their healthcare provider before discontinuing it [2].

How Does Astagraf XL Compare with Other Immunosuppressants?

Astagraf XL is similar to other tacrolimus products such as Prograf, but Astagraf XL has a proprietary formulation that provides improved bioavailability and reduced variability in plasma concentrations [3].

Who Makes Astagraf XL and When Does the Exclusivity Expire?

Astagraf XL is a product of Astellas Pharma Inc., a Japanese multinational pharmaceutical company [4]. According to DrugPatentWatch, the US patent for Astagraf XL expired in 2006, but a number of generic versions of the medication are now available, which may make the drug more affordable for patients [5].

What Are Common Side Effects of Astagraf XL?

Common side effects of Astagraf XL include headache, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and tremors. Patients experiencing these symptoms should consult their healthcare provider for guidance [6].

What Patients Should Not Take Astagraf XL?

Patients with hypersensitivity to tacrolimus or any other component of Astagraf XL, those with hepatic artery thrombosis, or those taking live vaccines should not take Astagraf XL [7].

Sources:

[1] https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/kidney-transplant

[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7321512/

[3] https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275191213

[4] https://www.astellas.com/

[5] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/astagraf-xl

[6] https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/887143

[7] https://www.drugs.com/pro/astagraf-xl