Tarpeyo (Budesonide) for Kidney Disease

Overview
Tarpeyo is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to reduce the loss of kidney function in adults with primary immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) who are at risk for disease progression. To be eligible for this treatment, a person must have a confirmed diagnosis of IgAN and meet specific clinical criteria. Tarpeyo is also known by its drug name, budesonide.

Tarpeyo is a type of corticosteroid. It works by targeting inflammation in the kidneys. Scientists think Tarpeyo works by calming the immune system and lowering inflammation, which may help protect the kidneys and slow the disease from getting worse

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Tarpeyo is taken orally (by mouth) as delayed-release capsules. It’s usually taken daily in the morning, at least one hour before a meal. Capsules should be swallowed whole without opening, crushing, or chewing. When discontinuing, the dose is typically reduced for the final two weeks. Always follow your health care provider’s instructions precisely when taking this medication.

Side effects
Common side effects of Tarpeyo include peripheral edema (swelling in the extremities), hypertension (high blood pressure), muscle spasms, acne, headache, upper respiratory tract infections, facial swelling, weight gain, indigestion, dermatitis (skin inflammation), joint pain, and an increase in white blood cell count.

Rare but serious side effects may include hypercorticism (excess levels of corticosteroids in the body), adrenal axis suppression (reduced function of the adrenal glands), increased risk of infections, and other complications related to corticosteroid use, such as worsening of hypertension or diabetes mellitus.

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Label: Tarpeyo — Budesonide Capsule, Delayed Release — DailyMed