Mycophenolate Side Effects

Severe Side Effects of Mycophenolate

Increased rates of Lymphoma cancer have been reported with Mycophenolate sodium use.
Increased risk of viral and fungal infections.
Increased risk of life threatening brain infection (progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy)
Mycophenolate may increase the likelihood of developing skin cancer.
Severe gastrointestinal bleeding may occur during use of Mycophenolate sodium.

Common Side Effects of Mycophenolate

Lowered white blood cell count which increases the risk of various infections.
High blood pressure
Increased cholesterol levels
Anxiety and/or depression
Anemia
Constipation
Urinary tract infection

Warnings & Recalls for Mycophenolate

Mycophenolate Recalls

On June 1st, 2011, Aidapak Services LLC recalled Mycophenolic Sodium DR 360 mg due to penicillin cross-contamination. The NDC (National Drug Code) is 00078-0386-66 and the recall number is D-670-2012. To view the recalled lots, look under number 177) on the Enforcement Report for November 30, 2011.

On November 26th, 2008, Advantage Dose LLC recalled Myfortic D-R (Mycophenolic acid) 360mg due to nonconformance of current good manufacturing practices. The drug was manufactured by Novartis and the recall number is D-703-2009. The recalled lot is F0084, and the expiration date is 10/29/09.

General Warnings for Mycophenolate

Mycophenolate is a pregnancy category class D drug. According to recent postmarketing data, Mycophenolate can cause pregnancy loss (especially during the first trimester) and birth defects. In animal studies, even small doses caused severe birth defects.
As with most immunosuppressants, Mycophenolate lowers the body's ability to fight infections and should be prescribed and taken with extreme caution.
Do not take antacids and mycophenolate simultaneously, as this will decrease absorption of the medication.

Mycophenolate Treatment and Use

Mycophenolate sodium | Myfortic is an immunosuppressant that is primarily prescribed to help the body accept kidney transplants and generally prevent transplant rejection. It is often combined with cyclosporine and corticosteroids. Mycophenolate is also used to help treat various autoimmune diseases such as Lupus and Crohn’s Disease. Mycophenolate sodium is marketed as the brand name Myfortic by Novartis, which is a delayed-release formulation.

How does Mycophenolate work?

Mycophenolate works to target overactive cells so the immune system does not attack and reject a transplanted organ. This lowered immune response also helps to stabilize an overactive immune response that often causes or aggravates autoimmune diseases. It was first studied as a potential antibiotic in 1896 but was found to be effective as an immunosuppressant during the 1970’s.

Mycophenolate Dosage

Mycophenolate sodium typically comes in 180 and 360 mg enteric coated tablet forms. The initial dosage for renal transplant patients is 720 mg twice a day on an empty stomach.

For heart transplant patients, the dosage may be increased to 2160 mg a day. It is important to take the tablets either one hour before or two hours after eating, with doses being taken 12 hours apart.

Other Names for Mycophenolate

Brand Names

Myfortic

Generic Names

Mycophenolate Sodium

Mycophenolic Acid