Sirolimus (Rapamune)
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Rapamune (Sirolimus) is an immunosuppressant used after kidney transplants to help prevent the body from rejecting the new organ.
Drug Information
1 review for Sirolimus (Rapamune)
Rapamune contains Sirolimus.
Sirolimus is an immunosuppressant used after kidney transplants to help prevent the body from rejecting the new kidney.
It is also used for a rare lung condition called lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM).
What is it used for?
- Preventing rejection after kidney transplant
- Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM)
How does it work?
Sirolimus blocks a protein called mTOR, which immune cells need to multiply. This lowers the immune response.
This information is written in simple words to help you understand this product. It does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist.
Read these points before you start. If any of them apply to you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist first.
- This medicine lowers your immune system, so you are more likely to get infections. Tell your doctor straight away if you have a fever or feel unwell.
- Avoid people with chickenpox, shingles or measles if you have not had them. Tell your doctor if you are exposed.
- Do not have live vaccines (such as yellow fever, MMR, BCG or oral typhoid) without your doctor's advice. Other vaccines, like flu and COVID-19, are usually recommended.
- It can raise the risk of some cancers, especially skin cancer. Use sunscreen, cover up and check your skin regularly.
- You will need regular blood tests.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy (including men planning to father a child) or breastfeeding.
- Take it the same way every time (always with food or always without), as food changes the amount absorbed.
- Avoid grapefruit juice.
- It can slow wound healing. Tell your doctor before any surgery.
- It can raise cholesterol and triglycerides.
- Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every other medicine, vitamin or herbal product you use.
- Keep this product out of the reach and sight of children.
Like all medicines, Rapamune can cause side effects, but not everybody gets them.
Common side effects
- Swelling of the legs
- High cholesterol
- Mouth ulcers
- Acne
- Headache
These are usually mild and often get better as your body gets used to it. Tell your doctor if they bother you or do not go away.
Stop using it and get medical help straight away if you notice:
- Fever, chills, sore throat or other signs of infection
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, or dark urine
- New or changing skin spots or lumps
- Signs of rejection: fever, pain over the transplant, less urine
- New cough or breathlessness
This is not a complete list. If you notice anything unusual, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- Take it once a day, at the same time each day.
- Take it the same way every day, always with or always without food.
- If you also take ciclosporin, take sirolimus 4 hours after it.
- Go to all your blood tests to check your sirolimus level.
If you miss a dose: Take it as soon as you remember, unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Never take two doses at once.
If you use too much: Contact your doctor, a poison control centre or your local emergency number straight away, even if you feel fine. Take the pack with you.
How to store it: Keep it in its original pack at room temperature (below 25°C / 77°F), away from heat, damp and direct sunlight. Do not use it after the expiry date.
- QWhy do I need blood tests on Rapamune?
- A
To check your blood cells, liver and kidneys, and sometimes the level of medicine in your blood, so any problems can be caught early.
- QCan I have vaccines while taking Rapamune?
- A
Most non-live vaccines, like flu and COVID-19, are recommended. Live vaccines should usually be avoided. Always check with your doctor.
- QWhat should I do if I get an infection on Rapamune?
- A
Contact your doctor straight away, even for something that seems minor, like a fever or sore throat. Infections can become serious more quickly when your immune system is lowered.

Ana Herrera –
Delivery of my Sirolimus was quicker than I thought it would be. The site is clean and easy to move around. I am glad I tried this site.