Tacrolimus capsules
Tacrolimus for liver and bowel conditions
Tacrolimus capsules are taken orally. This means you put them in your mouth and swallow them.
There are different brands of tacrolimus capsules, such as Adoport®. Do not mix different brands unless your doctor tells you to.
Your doctor will tell you how much tacrolimus you need to take. They might increase or decrease your dose depending on how well it’s working.
How to take tacrolimus capsules
Take tacrolimus capsules once or twice a day, depending on your prescription. Swallow them whole with a full glass of water.
Avoid eating immediately before or after taking your tacrolimus capsules.
If you’ve just eaten, wait 2 hours before taking tacrolimus.
After taking tacrolimus, wait at least 1 hour before eating.
Tacrolimus capsules are usually a long-term treatment. You might need to keep taking them regularly for a few years or for as long as you have the condition.
If you forget to take it
If you forget to take your tacrolimus capsules, wait until it’s time for your next dose. Then, continue taking them as usual.
Important
Never take 2 doses to make up for a forgotten one.
Food and drink
Avoid
- grapefruit and grapefruit juice – this can increase the levels of tacrolimus in your blood
- unpasteurised food, like unpasteurised milk and soft cheeses – they might contain bacteria that can make you unwell
Alcohol
Tacrolimus affects your liver. Limit how much alcohol you drink to help prevent liver damage.
Do not drink more than 14 units of alcohol a week – or do not drink alcohol at all if your doctor has recommended you avoid it
Alcohol can also make some of your side effects worse, including dizziness and changes to your vision.
Resource number: 5550/VER1
Last reviewed: November 2025
Next review due: November 2028
