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Cyclosporine Food Interactions

Brand names: Sandimmune, Neoral, Gengraf

Calcineurin Inhibitor (Immunosuppressant)

1
High Risk
๐ŸŠ Grapefruit / Grapefruit Juice ⚠️ High Risk

Grapefruit dramatically increases cyclosporine blood levels โ€” potentially by 2-3 fold. This significantly raises the risk of cyclosporine toxicity, including kidney damage and high blood pressure.

How it works

Grapefruit inhibits both intestinal and hepatic CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein, the primary mechanisms responsible for cyclosporine metabolism.

What to do: Completely avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking cyclosporine. Blood cyclosporine levels should be monitored regularly.
Source: FDA Sandimmune/Neoral Prescribing Information; KDIGO Transplant Guidelines
Disclaimer: Educational purposes only. Based on FDA drug labeling and NIH MedlinePlus. Consult your pharmacist or physician before changing your diet while on medication.