MOFECON -S TABLETS (Each tablet contains Mycophenolic Acid 360mg)
MYCOPHENDIC ACID
What it does
Mycophenolic acid is used to prevent the body from rejecting transplanted organs, such as kidneys, by suppressing the immune system.
Commonly used for: organ transplant rejection prevention, kidney transplant, heart transplant, liver transplant
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Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-04-18 08:32:59 · updated 2026-10-20 04:00:06
About this medicine
Mycophenolic acid is used to prevent the body from rejecting transplanted organs, such as kidneys, by suppressing the immune system.
What it treats
- organ transplant rejection prevention
- kidney transplant
- heart transplant
- liver transplant
How it works
It works by lowering the activity of the immune system, helping to prevent it from attacking the new organ.
Who it's for
This medicine is for people who have received an organ transplant and need support to ensure their body accepts the new organ.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: mycophendic
Mycophenolic acid, often referred to as mycophenolate, is an immunosuppressive agent primarily used to prevent organ rejection in transplant patients. It functions by inhibiting lymphocyte proliferation and is particularly effective in reducing the risk of acute rejection in kidney, heart, and liver transplants. Mycophenolate is often used in combination with other immunosuppressants to enhance efficacy and minimize the risk of rejection.
Indications
- Prevention of organ rejection in kidney transplants
- Prevention of organ rejection in heart transplants
- Prevention of organ rejection in liver transplants
- Autoimmune diseases (off-label use)
Dosage
Children: Refer to specific guidelines or clinical protocols for pediatric dosing, which may
Adults: Refer to specific guidelines or clinical protocols for dosage, as dosing may vary based on the indication and patient characteristics.
Mechanism of action
Mycophenolate acts as an inhibitor of inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH), an enzyme critical for the de novo synthesis pathway of purines. By inhibiting IMPDH, mycophenolate selectively targets lymphocytes, which are highly dependent on this pathway for proliferation and function, thereby reducing their activation and proliferation. This mechanism leads to a decrease in the production of antibodies and a reduction in the overall immune response.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of mycophenolate include a reduction in the proliferation of T and B lymphocytes, which are essential for immune responses. This immunosuppressive effect helps to prevent organ transplant rejection. The response to mycophenolate can vary among individuals, and monitoring of immunologic markers may be required to adjust therapy appropriately.
Pharmacokinetics
Mycophenolate is administered orally or intravenously and is extensively metabolized in the liver to mycophenolic acid, which is the active form. It has a bioavailability of approximately 60% when taken orally. The drug is highly protein-bound (about 97%) and has a volume of distribution of approximately 40 liters. The elimination half-life of mycophenolic acid is about 16 to 18 hours, with renal excretion of metabolites being the primary route of elimination. Factors such as renal function and concurrent medications can influence the pharmacokinetics of mycophenolate.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to mycophenolate mofetil or any of its components
- Pregnancy
Adverse effects
- Gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
- Increased risk of infections
- Hematological abnormalities (leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia)
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Headache
- Hypertension
- Rash
Interactions
- Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum may decrease absorption
- Cholestyramine may reduce absorption
- Other immunosuppressants may increase risk of infections and malignancies
Precautions
- Monitor blood counts regularly due to risk of cytopenias
- Use with caution in patients with a history of gastrointestinal disorders
- Consider potential for teratogenic effects in women of childbearing age
- Vaccination status should be reviewed prior to therapy
Pregnancy
Mycophenolate is contraindicated in pregnancy due to risk of teratogenicity and miscarriage.
Breast-feeding
Mycophenolate is excreted in breast milk; use caution and consider risks versus benefits.
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from moisture and light.
Formulations
- Mycophenolate mofetil capsules
- Mycophenolate mofetil tablets
- Mycophenolate mofetil oral suspension
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.