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Woah, that's A LOT!
Woah, that's A LOT!
We were both astounded by the sheer number of prescriptions that accompany a transplant. Of course, immunosuppressants are key to help ensure your body does not reject your new-to-you organ. However, when your immune system is suppressed, other medications are needed to prevent new ailments.
What is it, and why is it needed?
What is it, and why is it needed?
The list below is specific to liver transplant, and includes those prescribed by my husband's transplant team. This list is not all-inclusive. Your list or your loved one's list will likely look just a bit different. For example, there are multiple brands of anti-rejection medications. But, they serve the same goal!
Also, expect that the quantities and timeframes for usage can also be different for you or your loved one. Our bodies can react so very differently, so trust that your transplant team will do what's right for you!Â
Finally, the side effects listed are ones I hear most often, but they are by no means all-inclusive. You can look up additional side effects online or review the packet of information provided with the prescription itself.
Get Organized!
Get Organized!
Medication Template
I created this Medication Template to keep us organized as we prepare my husband's weekly pill boxes. Click File > Make a Copy to create a personalized copy for yourself. Yes, for free! (you might need a gmail account to download it).
Pill Organizer
There are so many pill boxes out there. We use the first one, but the second came recommended as it has a reminder setting - smart!
Anti-Rejection Medications
Anti-Rejection Medications
Mycophenolate Sodium (2 morning / 2 evening)
Side Effects: Handling can cause birth defects in pregnant women (wash hands)Prednisone (Originally 3x/day and now only 1x/day)
Side Effects: Induced Diabetes, Anger (higher doses), InsomniaTacrolimus (Originally 3 morning / 3 evening; Now 2 morning / 2 evening)
Side Effects: Hand Tremors
Bile Flow Medication
Bile Flow Medication
Ursodiol (1 morning / 1 evening)
Improves Bile Flow
Blood Clot Prevention Medication
Blood Clot Prevention Medication
Aspirin - "baby" or low dose (1 morning)
Prevents Blood Clots
Diabetes Management
Diabetes Management
Prednisone can increase your blood sugar levels - A LOT! Who knew?!?
This certainly does not apply to everyone. Repeat that to yourself! However, it was only through this process that I learned this is a thing. My husband was not diabetic pre-transplant, but now he has medication-induced diabetes (and we're hoping it's just short term until his prednisone dosage is reduced). He manages his blood sugar levels with insulin.
HumuLIN N Kwikpen Insulin (10 units in morning with pills)
Lowers Blood Sugar Levels (slow release)HumuLOG Kwikpen Insulin (Before meals as needed for high blood sugar - up to 4x/daily)
Lowers Blood Sugar Levels (quick release)
General Health Medication & Supplements
General Health Medication & Supplements
buPropion hcl (1 morning)
Supports Mental HealthCalcium (1 morning / 1 afternoon / 1 evening)
Supports Bone HealthVitamin D3 (1 morning)
Supports Bone HealthMultivitamin with Minerals (1 morning)
Supports Nutritional Health
Infection Prevention Medications
Infection Prevention Medications
Acyclovir (1 morning / 1 evening for 3 months post transplant)
Prevents Viral InfectionsNystatin (1 swish morning / 1 swish evening)
Prevents ThrushPrevymis (1 morning for 6 months post transplant)
Prevents CMV InfectionsSulfamethoxazole-Trimethoprim (1 morning)
Prevents Bacterial Infections
Pain Management Medications
Pain Management Medications
Hospital & home pain management medications are different.
You'll find that the medications in the hospital might defer from the ones you or your loved one will use at home. When in the hospital, my husband was on nerve blockers and other "IV fed" pain medication. He transitioned to pills just before coming home.
Gabapentin (1 morning / 1 afternoon / 1 evening)
Neuropathic Pain SupportOxycodone (1 every 4-6 hours as needed for first couple of weeks)
Local Pain ManagementTylenol Mega-Strength (1 every 6 hours as needed)
Prevents CMV InfectionsABC (1 morning)
Local Pain Management
Sleep Support Medication
Sleep Support Medication
Trazodone (2 evening)
Improves Sleep
Ulcer Prevention Medication
Ulcer Prevention Medication
Pantoprazole Sodium (1 evening)
Prevents Ulcers
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