Media Statement 2 June 2003

The National Kidney Research Fund responds to the cyclosporin as an immuno-suppressant drug debate

The Fund would like to reassure patients taking Cyclosprin as an immuno-suppressant drug not to be alarmed by the news that due to its side effects it should be replaced by newer drugs.

Cyclosporin, a commonly used immuno-suppressant drug, has been used for years. These drugs dampen down the immune system to prevent rejection of a transplanted kidney, as even when patients and kidneys are well matched in terms of tissue type and blood group there is some degree of rejection.

Research is taking place into newer drugs to try to prevent the side effects that Cyclosporin, along with other immuno-suppressant drugs, can have. However, due to the early days of the research and the fact that Cyclosporin has been well established for many years, the Fund believes that it is premature to advise people not to take Cyclosporin.

The Fund adds that during the monitoring process between patient and physician after a kidney transplant has taken place any potential problems with immuno-suppressant drugs would be carefully monitored.

For more information on Kidney Research UK please click here for a contact number.