Why are immunosuppressive drugs necessary?

Antirejection medications (immunosuppressants) are prescribed to help your immune system accept your new organ. Your transplant team may prescribe any of several antirejection medications: cyclosporine, tacrolimus, sirolimus, prednisone, mycophenolate, azathioprine, and basiliximab or Daclizumab. Some are taken in pill form every day; others are administered intravenously. As long as you have a functioning transplanted organ, you will take one or more antirejection medications for the rest of your life. Following the dosing schedule determined by your transplant team is essential to your wellbeing. Your transplant team determines the appropriate medications for you. You may be asked to participate in a self-medication program while you are in the hospital. By taking responsibility for your own medications in the hospital while under the supervision of a nurse, you can make the transition to home less stressful. Remember, taking your medications is your responsibility.