What Is Cyclosporine?

The immune systems should protect an individual's body from viruses, bacteria, and other threats. However, it seems that some situations may result in it becoming unregulated. If this happens and it is left untreated, patients may deal with serious health issues. Examples may include organ damage and chronic inflammation. Thankfully, an immunosuppressant like cyclosporine may be able to treat immune system issues.

Cyclosporine tablets appear to be quite common after organ transplants. Some patients may receive them beforehand as well. However, certain cases may call for a cyclosporine oral solution. Some eye conditions seem to merit the use of this medication as prescription eye drops. It may also be a treatment for arthritis and other health problems. Patients should understand the ways in which cyclosporine pills should work, as well as their precautions, potential interactions, and side effects first.

How It Should Work 

Cyclosporine should help suppress the immune system. Evidence indicates that this can happen because the medication can reduce calcineurin. This enzyme appears to be a significant part of the immune system. It should help create T-cells, a type of white blood cell. T-cells seem to damage foreign cells in the body because they may often see them as threats. Unfortunately, T-cells may attack and damage a new organ during a transplant if it sees the organ's cells as a threat. The T-cells may also activate other white blood cells responsible for inflammation.

Patients with an overactive immune system may end up with an autoimmune disorder or another condition involving chronic inflammation. This medication, as mentioned, seems to reduce the enzyme that manages T-cells, which can help prevent these conditions.

Learn about the potential uses for this medication next.