Drugs used to inhibit the immune system are standard treatment after transplant surgeries. Unfortunately, these life-saving drugs also cause hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity at high concentrations. Drug monitoring is used for immunosuppressants to ensure that concentrations are adequate to suppress the immune response and prevent rejection, yet not high enough to cause liver failure or severe immunodeficiency.
Examples of immunosuppressants that TDM monitors include:
- Cyclosporine
- Methotrexate (this drug is also used as an anti-neoplastic drug)
- Tacrolimus
- Sirolimus
