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A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
This medicine is an immunosuppressant used to prevent organ rejection after a kidney transplant. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions you may have about this medicine. THIS MEDICINE MAY BE TAKEN on an empty stomach or with food. Always take it the same way, either with food or on an empty stomach. TAKE THIS MEDICINE at the same time each day. IF YOU ARE ALSO TAKING CYCLOSPORINE, take this medicine 4 hours after your cyclosporine dose unless otherwise directed by your doctor. DO NOT EAT GRAPEFRUIT OR DRINK GRAPEFRUIT JUICE AT ANY TIME WHILE TAKING THIS MEDICINE. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in a tightly-closed and light-resistant container, away from heat and light. Protect from direct sunlight. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do NOT take 2 doses at once.
Warning:
Rapamune decreases the action of the immune system. This may increase your risk for infection. It may also increase your risk for developing certain types of cancer (eg, lymphoma). Tell your doctor right away if you notice signs of infection (eg, persistent sore throat, chills, fever) or unusual growths or lumps. Rapamune may increase the risk of severe side effects, including death, when used with certain other immunosuppressants in liver or lung transplant patients. Use of Rapamune in liver or lung transplant patients is not recommended.