Sirolimus

Notes

• Sirolimus is an immunosuppressant drug used in the prophylaxis of organ rejection in patients receiving transplants.
• Sirolimus can be used in combination with ciclosporin, tacrolimus or mycophenolate.
• Sirolimus levels are measured in order to establish the correct dose, maintain therapeutic levels and ensure that toxic levels are avoided.

Sample requirements

• Samples should be taken just before the next dose (trough level).

For adults, blood taken into an 4mL EDTA tube

For children, blood taken into a 2mL EDTA tube

Storage/transport

Send at ambient temperature to the laboratory. If unavoidable, samples can be stored refrigerated overnight.

Required information

Relevant clinical details including time of dose and time sample taken (should be just before the next dose).

Turnaround times

Samples are sent for analysis at the North Bristol NHS Trust with a result expected within 1 week.

Sirolimus can be ordered as an urgent test if clinically indicated. If the laboratory is informed and appropriately-timed samples are received in the laboratory in the morning, results can be obtained by the end of the working day (Monday – Friday).

Therapeutic ranges

Within 6 months post transplant: 10 - 15 µg/L
After 6 months post transplant: 5 - 10 µg/L

Further information

To learn more about sirolimus visit Lab Tests On line.