People who have recently undergone an organ transplant usually have to take various medicines to facilitate the healing process. More importantly, these medications play an essential role in ensuring that their new organ is accepted by their body.
If you are in a similar situation, knowing why you are taking the medication is essential. That is because when you know the reason, it will be easier for you to understand what you need to do to ensure more effective recovery and facilitate the functionality of your new organ.
If you want to know more about your medication to understand what it does to your body and how to effectively take them, then keep on reading.
Types of medication
While there can be many types of medication you need to take, such as anti-infection drugs, the most common type is anti-rejection medication. Anti-rejection medicines, also known as immunosuppressives, lowers your body’s ability to reject a transplanted organ, allowing the organ to function normally. These medicines come in different names, such as cyclosporine and prednisone, and you will likely be taking multiple types of immunosuppressives simultaneously.
Side effects
Different medications will come with different side effects. However, the most common side effects include weight gain, hair loss, acne, and accelerated hair growth. Fortunately, many of these side effects can be easily controlled. This is generally done by adjusting your dosage, which is what your doctor will help you do.
That said, remember to be aware of the side effects that come specifically with the medicine you take. That way, if you are experiencing too much of a side effect, you can take it up with the doctor to discuss possible changes.
Dosage
The right dosage will vary on a case-by-case basis. The doctor will also change the dosage of the medicine depending on several factors, such as side effects and also blood test results. Regardless, what is important is that you know the right dosage for you and that you stick to it. Otherwise, you risk transplant failure, which is commonly caused by not sticking to the doctors’ recommended dosage.
On that note, if you do miss a dose, it is not the end of the world. As soon as you remember, take it. However, note the scheduled time to take your next dose. If it is really close, skip the missed dose and stay on track with the next one. The more consistent you are with taking your necessary doses, the better your body will continue functioning with the transplanted organ.
Conclusion
We hope that you now understand the importance of taking your transplant medication and taking them according to your schedule. Remember, the better you are at sticking to the recommended dosage, the better your new organ will heal and perform.
If you are facing issues with the medications you are taking, whether it be an increase in side effects and such, do not be hesitate to contact and visit your doctor. They will quickly identify the cause of the problem and make changes to your medication plan to ensure you enjoy a quick recovery with minimal complications.
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