This activity will strengthen the knowledge of all pharmacists at UPMC in Central PA hospitals on the management of medications in patients who have had a kidney transplant. This activity will describe approaches to transplant immunosuppression and regimen design. This activity will detail agents used for induction and maintenance immunosuppression including role, dose, mechanism of action, relevant pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties, and adverse effects. This activity will also discuss pharmacologic strategies for mitigating adverse effects from immunosuppression and other comorbidities associated with kidney transplantation.

Through this activity, pharmacists will gain insight on the big picture of solid organ transplant management, relevant literature, and confidence in making recommendations regarding individual medications used. They will better understand the rationale behind the transplant providers' orders and, therefore, be able to engage in more effective patient care support.