Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies of the newer immunosuppressants [ 2002 - 2004 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Susan Tett (Principal investigator) ,  A/Pr Peter Pillans ,  Mr Paul Taylor ,  Prof Stephen Duffull ,  Prof Stephen Lynch

Brief description After an organ transplant (such as a liver or kidney transplant), people need to take medicines continually to stop their immune systems from rejecting their new organ. This treatment with immunosuppressant drugs is vital for long-term success of the graft. These drugs are designed to prevent rejection in patients who have received organ transplants (e.g. kidney, liver) and are also being used to treat a variety of autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis. However, too many people are losing transplanted organs, or not achieving remission from their autoimmune diseases, or are experiencing significant illness and sometimes death from over immunosuppression (infection or side effects) because these drugs are not being used in the best way. The quality and duration of life of increasing numbers of Australians is being affected by lack of understanding and application of some basic principles about dosing regimens for these drugs. The aim of this project is to accurately define the best way to dose these newer immunosuppressant drugs in Australian populations, before they become more widely used .

Funding Amount $AUD 406,650.00

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant