What does CPA mean in BRITISH MEDICINE

Cyclosporin A (CPA) is an immunosuppressant drug used to prevent organ transplant rejections and treat autoimmune disorders. It was discovered in 1972 by a research team at Sandoz labs in Switzerland.

CPA works by suppressing T-cells, which are a type of white blood cell that can attack transplanted organs or certain cells in the body that cause autoimmunity. By controlling the response of these cells, CPA helps to reduce organ rejection rates and lessen the severity of autoimmune diseases.

The most common side effects associated with CPA use include high blood pressure, headache, kidney toxicity, nausea, vomiting, tremor, confusion, and hair loss. Other rare but more serious side effects include pancreatitis and infections caused by opportunistic pathogens such as fungi or viruses.

People who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take CPA due to potential harm it could cause to their baby. People with liver disease should also avoid taking CPA since its breakdown products can be harmful for patients with impaired liver function. Additionally, people who have had an allergic reaction to cyclosporine should not take this medication.

Yes, there are several alternative treatments available for people who cannot take CPA due to allergies or other health conditions. These alternatives include azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), sirolimus/rapamycin, and tacrolimus/FK506.