Effect of Schisandra sphenanthera extract on the concentration of tacrolimus in the blood of liver transplant patients

Abstract

Background Tacrolimus (Tac) is widely used to prevent allograft rejection after liver transplantation. We found that the concentration of Tac in blood was significantly increased in liver transplant patients who were receiving Schisandra sphenanthera extract (SchE). The objective of this study was to determine the effect of SchE on the concentration of Tac in the blood of liver transplant patients. Materials and methods Patients were initially administered Tac (first phase) and then SchE was provided (second phase). During the first phase of treatment, 46 patients received the same oral dose of Tac. In the second phase of treatment, 21 patients (Group A) received the same dose of Tac and 25 patients (Group B) received a lower dose of Tac. The concentration of Tac in the blood and the biochemical indices of liver function, as well as symptoms of Tac-related toxicity, were determined, and 14 patients were selected for a pharmacokinetic study. Results After co-administration of Tac and SchE, the average increase in the mean concentration of Tac in the blood was 339% and 262% in Groups A and B, respectively. The liver function indices were decreased significantly (p Conclusions SchE markedly increased the concentration of Tac in the blood of liver transplant patients, improved liver function and reduced the incidence of Tac-associated side-effects.