Voclosporin and Alcohol/Food Interactions

Food may delay and reduce the absorption of voclosporin, which may lead to lower blood levels of the medication and possibly reduced effectiveness. Voclosporin should be taken on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food. This will make it easier for your body to absorb the medication. Also, while taking voclosporin, you should avoid grapefruits and grapefruit juice. Grapefruit can raise the blood levels of voclosporin in your body and lead to increased adverse effects. Do not increase or decrease the amount of grapefruit products in your diet without first talking to your doctor. Also, if you are taking voclosporin you should avoid potassium-containing salt substitutes or over-the-counter potassium supplements without first talking to your doctor. Taking voclosporin together with these salt substitutes or supplements may cause high levels of potassium in your blood. High levels of potassium can cause weakness, irregular heartbeat, confusion, tingling of the extremities, or feelings of heaviness in the legs. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these symptoms. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

voclosporin – hypertension

The use of voclosporin causes hypertension. Exercise care when using this agent in hypertensive patients, including patients on antihypertensive drugs. It is recommended to monitor blood pressure regularly during treatment and treat new-onset hypertension and exacerbations of preexisting hypertension according to medical practices. If a patient experiences increases in blood pressure that cannot be managed with dose reduction or other appropriate medical intervention, consider treatment discontinuation.