Cyclosporine is available in its original form and in a different product that has been changed to help the body absorb the medicine better. The body absorbs the original cyclosporine and modified cyclosporine in different amounts, so they can’t be switched out. Take only the kind of cyclosporine that your doctor gave you. When your doctor writes you a prescription, make sure that they tell you which type of cyclosporine to get. Look at the brand name on the label of your prescription each time you get it filled to ensure you are getting the same kind of cyclosporine. Talk to your pharmacist if you need to know the brand name or aren’t sure you got the right cyclosporine.
If you take cyclosporine or cyclosporine (modified), you may have a higher chance of getting an infection or cancer, especially lymphoma or skin cancer. This risk may be higher if you take cyclosporine or cyclosporine (modified) with other drugs that weaken the immune system, such as azathioprine (Imuran), cancer chemotherapy, methotrexate (Rheumatrex), sirolimus (Rapamune), and tacrolimus (Prograf). Tell your doctor if you are taking any of these medicines and if you have or have ever had cancer. To lower your risk of skin cancer, don’t stay in the sun for too long or if necessary. Also, wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen while you’re getting treated. If any of the following happen, you should call your doctor right away: sore throat, fever, chills, and other signs of infection; flu-like symptoms; coughing; trouble urinating; pain when urinating; a red, raised, or swollen area on the skin; new sores or discoloration on the skin; lumps or masses anywhere on your body; night sweats; swollen glands in the neck, armpits, or groyne; trouble breathing; chest pain; weakness or tiredness that doesn’t go away;