Tacrolimus is an immunosuppressive medication that helps prevent organ rejection after kidney transplantation. It works by weakening the immune system’s response to the transplanted kidney, making it less likely for the body to reject the new organ. This medication is being studied as a single-drug therapy approach.

Standard triple immunosuppressive therapy includes a combination of three different medications typically used after kidney transplantation to prevent organ rejection. This is the traditional approach that combines multiple medications to suppress the immune system.

Note: The trial compares using tacrolimus alone versus the standard combination of three immunosuppressive medications in elderly kidney transplant recipients, with the goal of reducing infection-related complications while maintaining adequate protection against organ rejection.

End-stage Kidney Disease – A condition where the kidneys permanently lose their ability to filter waste from the blood and perform other essential functions. The disease develops gradually as kidney function progressively declines. When kidneys reach this stage, they operate at less than 15% of their normal capacity. This condition leads to fluid retention, electrolyte imbalances, and the build-up of waste products in the body. The disease typically results from other long-term health conditions that damage the kidneys over time.

Cytomegalovirus Infection – A common viral infection that belongs to the herpes virus family. The virus can remain dormant in the body for long periods and may reactivate when the immune system is weakened. In transplant recipients, the virus can become active due to immunosuppression. The infection can affect various organs and tissues in the body.

BK Virus Infection – A common virus that often remains inactive in healthy individuals. The virus typically resides in the urinary tract and kidneys without causing problems in people with normal immune systems. In transplant recipients who take immunosuppressive medications, the virus can reactivate and multiply. The infection primarily affects the urinary system and transplanted kidney.