Description
Why It’s Done
This test is important to:
• Ensure therapeutic drug levels are maintained.
• Prevent organ rejection in transplant recipients (e.g., kidney, liver, heart).
• Avoid cyclosporine toxicity, which can lead to kidney damage, liver dysfunction, high blood pressure, or neurological symptoms.
• Monitor treatment in autoimmune conditions like psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, or nephrotic syndrome.
Preparation
• Follow your doctor’s advice on timing of the test – it’s often done just before the next dose (trough level).
• Do not take your dose of cyclosporine before the blood draw, unless instructed otherwise.
• Inform the healthcare provider about all medications, herbal supplements, or any recent changes in dosage, as these can affect cyclosporine levels.
• A standard blood sample is collected from a vein in the arm.
