Monitoring tacrolimus whole blood concentrations

Abstract

Tacrolimus (TAC) is the primary drug for most immunosuppressive therapy regimens. It has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning that insufficient dose can lead to graft and tissue rejection, while overdose can lead to increased risk of infections, toxicity, and cancerous tumors in organ transplant recipients. TAC belongs to a group of calcineurin inhibitors inhibiting T-cell activation. The use of TAC requires regular clinical observation of recipients and laboratory monitoring of the drug concentrations in the blood. This is to ensure correct dosage of the drug and to limit the potential risk of harmful side effects. The review presents data on some clinical, genetic factors affecting the bioavailability and concentration of TAC in the blood. We also present data on the methodological aspects of TAC laboratory control.