Medication Care for Kidney Transplant Patients

Aug 13, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My father recently experienced some kidney discomfort, and he just underwent a kidney transplant surgery a few days ago. I would like to ask what medications should be used for post-operative care in kidney transplant patients?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Guang

After kidney transplantation, patients should pay attention to the following medication care points:

1. Use of immunosuppressive agents: Except for transplants between identical twins, kidney transplant recipients need to take immunosuppressive agents for life to prevent rejection of the transplanted kidney. Patients must follow medical advice and adjust dosages under the guidance of a physician; self-adjustment of dosage is not allowed.

2. Monitoring for side effects: Immunosuppressive agents such as cyclosporine soft capsules and tacrolimus capsules may cause side effects like immune system disorders and impaired liver function, manifesting as symptoms including physical fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. Patients should regularly monitor relevant indicators, such as liver function and complete blood count, to detect and manage side effects promptly.

3. Avoidance of nephrotoxic drugs: After kidney transplantation, patients should avoid using drugs that are toxic to the kidneys, such as gentamicin, kanamycin, amikacin, and streptomycin. If such drugs must be used, they should be administered for a short duration only under a physician's guidance, with close monitoring of renal function changes.

4. Adherence to prescribed medication schedules: In addition to immunosuppressive agents, patients may also need to take other medications, such as antihypertensive drugs and hepatoprotective drugs. All medications should be taken strictly according to medical instructions, at the prescribed time and dosage.