Impact of tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil combination on cardiovascular risk profile after kidney transplantation

Abstract

Cardiovascular risk factors after kidney transplantation are enhanced as a result of the chronic use of immunosuppressants. Tacrolimus with mycophenolate mofetil has become the most commonly used combination after kidney transplantation. Cardiovascular risk factors that are related to the use of this combined therapy have been analyzed in various clinical trials in comparison with other immunosuppressive therapies. This review summarizes the main results of these studies regarding arterial hypertension, lipid profile, posttransplantation diabetes, renal function, and even acute rejection rate. The aim is to characterize the cardiovascular risk profile of tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil association when compared with older and newer immunosuppressive associations. Copyright © 2006 by the American Society of Nephrology.