Kidney
envarsus xr vs tacrolimus
July 2, 2025
in Kidney
Has anyone transitioned from tacro to envarsus xr and if so can you share any concerns? Thanks
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U take tacrolimus as progaf pill .I take 2 morning and 2 night
They are the same, right? Both are tac, but one is extended release, correct?
It the same pill
Transplant Patient
Envarsus is extended release tacrolimus. I’m sure someone more scientifically inclined can explain the makeup differences.
I switched from prograf to advagraf (another form of extended release tacrolimus) a year or so after my transplant. For me it worked wonders - less side effects, I only have to remember to take meds once a day, my labs are more stable. If you have any questions about your specific case I’d definitely check with your team.
Alisha I take prograf twice a day 2 in the morning and two at bedtime
I made the switch from the Tac to Envarsus. They played with the dosing over the course of a year or so. My Tac levels were either to high or to low. I have been stable for at least 6 months. They got me off the Tac because my kidneys were affected. So they lowered the Tac again and added Mycrophelate (sp). I guess the Microphenalte is easier on the kidneys.
i am always impressed by the different drugs we are all on. Transplant is unique to every organ and every person. What works for one person may not be right another.
Transplant Patient
Hi!
I tried switching from Prograf to Envarsus about 18 months ago and it was not as easy as advertised. I do think Envarsus is better on side effects such as tremor and nightmares and other brain/neuro related issues. But for me my trough levels dropped so much that I did not dare to continue. I think it should be attempted under close supervision of your center and especially your pharmacists or nephrologist. I am considering another attempt!
Transplant Patient
Also - Envarsus is an extended release Prograf with some real benefits such as once a day dosing but also lesser side effects overall. Smoother profile so the negative effects are not as grave. Advagraf is a different (older) form of Prograf XR (extended release) than Envarsus. The Envarsus people would argue that Advagraf does not come with the same benefits but labels are very similar.
I am a liver transplant but pre-transplant my kidneys were struggling. Creatine is 2.3, lots of adjusting meds to accommodate kidney damage. I transitioned to Envarsus a year and a half ago to “save” kidney function. My quality of life is much better now, less side effects, smaller dose. But everyone is different. It took 8 months to get the right dose to keep my levels steady. Wishing you good outcomes!