OBJECTIVETo study the protection of Gan by using deoxyschizandrin (Wuzhi Capsule, WC) in the renal transplantation recipients while increasing the blood concentration of tacrolimus (Tac).

METHODSSeventy-three renal transplant recipients were randomly assigned to two groups, i.e., 35 in the WC group and 38 in the control group. All patients received Tac + MMF + Pred triple immunosuppressive therapy. WC was additionally given to patients in the WC group. One year was taken as one therapeutic course. Changes of the blood concentration of Tac were detected one week, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after medication in the two groups using microparticle enzyme immune assay (MEIA). Meanwhile, the liver and kidney functions, and the blood glucose were tested.

RESULTSOne week after the application of WC, the blood Tac concentration increased 67.2% averagely. During the 1 -12 months of WC treatment, the Tac dosage was significantly lower in the WC group than in the control group (P<0.01). There was no significant difference in the liver and renal functions, or the blood glucose levels between the two groups (P>0.05).

CONCLUSIONWC could significantly increase the blood Tac concentration of renal transplant recipients, reduce their Tac dosages, with no obvious adverse reaction.