Mycophenolate Mofetil

Generic Details

Generic Name

Mycophenolate Mofetil

Other Names

  • CellCept

Drug Class

  • Immunosuppressant

Chemical Formula

C23H31NO7

Molecular Weight

433.50 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Inhibits inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase, thereby preventing the proliferation of T- and B-lymphocytes

Indications

  • Prevention of organ rejection in kidney, heart, or liver transplant recipients

Common Dosage Forms

  • Capsules
  • Tablets
  • Oral Suspension

Typical Dosage

  • 500-1500 mg twice daily for renal transplant
  • 1000 mg twice daily for cardiac transplant

Pediatric Dosage

  • Dosing based on body weight and organ transplant type

Geriatric Dosage

  • Generally similar to adult dosing but may require adjustments based on renal function

Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Infections
  • Leukopenia

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to mycophenolate mofetil or any component of the formulation

Pregnancy Category

  • Category D - evidence of risk in pregnancy

Lactation Safety

  • Limited data available; caution advised

Drug Interactions

  • Antacids may reduce absorption
  • Avoid concomitant use with azathioprine

Overdose Symptoms

  • Increased risk of adverse effects such as leukopenia and infections

Antidote for Overdose

  • No specific antidote; symptomatic and supportive treatment

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature (20-25°C)
  • Protect from light and moisture

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Rapidly and completely absorbed after oral administration
  • Distribution: Widely distributed, primarily to tissues with high nucleic acid turnover
  • Metabolism: Metabolized to active mycophenolic acid
  • Excretion: Primarily eliminated through the kidneys

Precautions

  • Increased risk of infections
  • Regular monitoring of blood counts and renal function

Warnings

  • Increased risk of lymphoma and other malignancies

Others

  • Mycophenolate mofetil should be used under the guidance of a transplant specialist