Sporimune Caps (cyclosporine)
Call to order(859) 281-9511General Drug Information and Indications
Cyclosporine capsules for immunosuppressive therapy in dogs and cats; atopic dermatitis and immune-mediated diseases.
Calcineurin inhibitor (cyclosporine modified capsules). Mechanism: cyclosporine binds cyclophilin → inhibits calcineurin → prevents NFAT dephosphorylation and IL-2 transcription → suppresses T-lymphocyte activation. Modified (Neoral) formulation uses microemulsion for improved and more consistent oral bioavailability compared to original oil-based formulation.
Key information
Refrigerate oral solution; do not freeze. Modified formulation (Atopica) has better bioavailability. Administer consistently — always with or always without food. Grapefruit juice significantly increases blood levels. Numerous drug interactions. Nephrotoxic — monitor renal function. Do not use in animals with neoplasia.
How to Give this Medication
Oral capsules or solution: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. for most consistent absorption (or consistently with food — choose one and maintain). Measure oral solution carefully; mix with food if palatability is poor. Ophthalmic ointment (Optimmune): apply pea-sized amount to lower conjunctival sac q12h. Store refrigerated (2–8°C); do not freeze. (solution/ophthalmic); Store at room temperature; protect from light. (capsules).
If a dose is missed
Administer as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule. Never double up doses to make up for a missed one. Administer consistently. Do not double doses.
Side Effects
GI: vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia (common — usually improves over time). Gingival hyperplasia. Papillomatosis (viral warts). Opportunistic infections (bacterial, fungal, viral — especially Toxoplasma in cats). Nephrotoxicity (monitor renal function with systemic use). Lymphoma risk (long-term). Hypertrichosis. Hepatotoxicity.
Precautions
For animals
Monitor trough blood cyclosporine levels (target varies by indication). Monitor renal function, hydration status, and urine output. Monitor liver enzymes with prolonged use. Avoid live vaccines during therapy. Numerous drug interactions (CYP3A4 substrate and inhibitor): ketoconazole, fluconazole, diltiazem increase levels; rifampin, phenobarbital decrease levels. Avoid in pregnant animals. Grapefruit juice increases absorption.
For people handling this medication
Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Immunosuppressant — wear gloves when handling. Avoid skin contact with solution or capsule contents. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact. Teratogenic potential. Immunocompromised persons should take extra precautions. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. Cyclosporine overdose causes GI signs and immunosuppression.
Sporimune Caps (cyclosporine) dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SPORIMUNE CAPS (CYCLOSPORINE) 50MG - 15CT | 50 MG | Capsule | 1 | Commercial |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)