Psychoneuroimmunology: How Your Mind Controls Immunity
Scientifically Reviewed · Dr. Marwa Abd-Alazim · August 11, 2026
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Cyclosporine (Cyclosporin) is an immunosuppressive drug used to treat a variety of conditions, including autoimmune diseases, transplant rejection, and inflammatory diseases. It was first approved for use in the United States in 1983, and has been widely used since then. In this article, we will discuss the mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, clinical uses, side effects, and safety of cyclosporine.
Mechanism of Action
Cyclosporine works by suppressing the activity of T lymphocytes, which are responsible for the body’s immune response. It does this by inhibiting the production of cytokines, which are molecules involved in the inflammatory process. It also decreases the production of immunoglobulin, an antibody that helps the body fight off infection.
Pharmacokinetics
Cyclosporine is well absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring 1-2 hours after dosing. The drug is metabolized by the liver and excreted in the urine and feces. Its half-life is approximately 12 hours.
Clinical Uses
Cyclosporine is most commonly used to prevent organ rejection in transplant patients. It is also used to treat a variety of autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. In addition, it is used to treat some types of eye inflammation.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of cyclosporine are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache. Other potential side effects include high blood pressure, kidney damage, elevated cholesterol levels, and an increased risk of infection.
Safety
Cyclosporine is generally considered to be safe when used as directed. However, it is important to monitor for potential side effects and to use caution in patients with underlying kidney or liver disease.
Conclusion
Cyclosporine is an immunosuppressive drug used to treat a variety of conditions, including autoimmune diseases, transplant rejection, and inflammatory diseases. It works by suppressing the activity of T lymphocytes, is well absorbed after oral administration, and has a half-life of approximately 12 hours. Cyclosporine is generally safe when used as directed, but it is important to monitor for potential side effects and to use caution in patients with underlying kidney or liver disease.
References
Deeb, A. (2019). Cyclosporine. In StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534608/
Gershon, R.K., & Bryson, H. (2014). Immunosuppressive drugs. In StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459333/
Krishnan, A., & Spitzer, S. (2018). Immunosuppressants. In StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK531504/
U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2020). Cyclosporine. Retrieved from https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682719.html
