Tacrolimus Test in Kathmandu

About this test

Tacrolimus is one of the most important drugs given after a kidney, liver, or heart transplant, and this test measures exactly how much of it is circulating in your blood. Because it suppresses the immune system to stop your body rejecting the new organ, getting the dose right is a delicate balance: too little and the transplant is at risk of rejection, too much and you face kidney damage, tremor, high blood pressure, raised blood sugar, and a greater chance of infection. The drug has a narrow therapeutic window and behaves differently from person to person, so doctors do not rely on the dose alone — they monitor the actual blood concentration. The sample is taken as a trough level, meaning at the lowest point in the cycle just before the next dose, which is why timing matters so much for an accurate result. Your transplant physician interprets the number against a target range that shifts over time: levels are usually kept higher in the first weeks after surgery and gradually lowered as the organ stabilises. The result is read alongside your kidney function tests, blood counts, and any signs of rejection or infection. Levels can swing when other medicines are added — certain antibiotics, antifungals, and even pomelo or grapefruit can push them up — so always share your full medication list. For transplant recipients in Nepal, where lifelong specialist follow-up can mean long journeys to Kathmandu, regular tacrolimus monitoring is a simple but essential safeguard that protects both the graft and your overall health.

Sample type

Whole blood (EDTA)

Preparation

This is a trough-level test: the sample must be drawn just before your next dose, usually 12 hours after the last one. Take the morning sample BEFORE swallowing the day's tablet, and bring your medication so you can take it straight after the draw. No fasting is needed. Always tell us your dosing time.

Turnaround time

Reports for Tacrolimus are typically ready within: Same Day. Reports can be collected at the clinic during opening hours or shared via WhatsApp once they are ready.

Also known as

Other biochemistry tests we run

These are routinely ordered alongside Tacrolimus or as part of the same diagnostic workup.

How to book

WhatsApp is the fastest way — message us with the test name and your preferred time, and we'll confirm a slot the same day. You can also walk into the clinic at Rumba Chowk, Sanobharang any day between 7AM and 8PM, or fill in our online booking form.