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Kalydeco
  • Treatments
  • Cystic Fibrosis

Kalydeco

Generic name:ivacaftorEYE-va-KAF-tor ]
Drug class:CFTR potentiators

Medically reviewed by Judith Stewart, BPharm. Last updated on Feb 3, 2021.

What is Kalydeco?

Kalydeco is used to treat cystic fibrosis in adults and children who are at least 4 months old and weigh at least 11 pounds (5 kilograms).

Kalydeco is for use only in patients with a specific gene mutation related to cystic fibrosis.

Before you take Kalydeco, you may need a medical test to make sure you have this gene mutation.

Warnings

You should not use Kalydeco if you are allergic to ivacaftor.

Before you take Kalydeco, tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease.

Kalydeco should be taken with a food that contains fat, such as butter, peanut butter, eggs, cheese pizza, or whole-milk dairy products such as whole milk, cheese, and yogurt. Follow your doctor's instructions very carefully.

Grapefruit, grapefruit juice, and Seville oranges may interact with Kalydeco and lead to unwanted effects. Discuss the use of grapefruit and orange products with your doctor.

To be sure Kalydeco is not causing harmful effects, your liver function will need to be checked with frequent blood tests. Visit your doctor regularly.

There are many other drugs that can interact with ivacaftor. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to any healthcare provider who treats you.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Kalydeco if you are allergic to ivacaftor.

Some medicines can cause unwanted or dangerous effects when used with ivacaftor. Your doctor may change your treatment plan if you also use: