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Ciclosporin Monitoring — SCE Dermatology MCQ

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EasyDermatopharmacologyCiclosporin MonitoringSCE Dermatology

A 25-year-old man with severe eczema is started on Ciclosporin. At what interval should blood pressure and renal function be monitored according to BAD guidelines?

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Correct answer: BEvery 2 weeks for the first 3 months then monthly thereafter

BAD guidelines mandate BP and serum creatinine monitoring every 2 weeks for the first 3 months of Ciclosporin therapy then monthly thereafter. This intensive monitoring reflects the nephrotoxic and hypertensive effects of Ciclosporin. If systolic BP rises >140 mmHg on two occasions or creatinine rises >30% above baseline on two occasions 2 weeks apart, dose reduction by 25-50% is required. If these abnormalities persist despite dose reduction, Ciclosporin should be stopped. Additional monitoring includes fasting lipids (every 3-6 months), LFTs, magnesium, potassium, and uric acid. Drug interactions via CYP3A4 must be checked at every visit.

Reference: BAD 2018 Drug Monitoring; BNF