This page contains brief details about the drug , it's indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.
Background and Date of Approval
Mycophenolate sodium is an immunosuppressant drug approved by the U.S. Food And Drug Administration on 24 Feb 2004. It is used for preventing organ rejection in individuals who have previously received an organ transplant.
Mechanism of Action of undefined
Mycophenolate sodium is an immunosuppressant that inhibits inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH), blocking the production of purines needed for lymphocyte growth. This selectively affects T- and B-cells. These lymphocytes are key players in the immune response that can lead to the rejection of a transplanted organ.
Uses of undefined
Mycophenolate sodium helps to treat organ rejection in individuals who have previously received an organ transplant (such as kidney, heart, or liver transplantation). It is prescribed as part of a combination therapy that includes other drugs such as cyclosporine and corticosteroids.
undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available
It is an orally available prescription drug. Your physician will decide the dose and duration of the treatment based on your disease condition, severity, and other factors. Always take Mycophenolate sodium as prescribed by your doctor. Do not open, crush, break, or chew the medicine.
Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined
Warnings
- Contraindication during pregnancy: Mycophenolate sodium should not be used during pregnancy due to the risk of birth defects and miscarriage. It should only be prescribed if there are no alternatives and the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
- Contraception: Women of childbearing age are strongly advised to use effective contraception while taking Mycophenolate sodium to prevent pregnancy.
- Live vaccines: Live vaccines should not be administered while taking Mycophenolate sodium due to reduced effectiveness and the increased risk of infection.
- Blood donation: Individuals taking Mycophenolate sodium should not donate blood during treatment and for at least six weeks after stopping treatment to ensure the drug is adequately cleared from the body.
Precautions
It is generally advised not to take this medicine if you are allergic to the drug or any other ingredients. Inform your doctor of liver or heart disease before initiating the treatment. As this drug reduces the body's immune defenses, it can increase the chance of skin cancer. Individuals must take precautions to limit their exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) light. Seek your doctor immediately if you develop any bruising under the skin, fever, unexplained tiredness, dizziness, yellowing of the skin or eyes, vision impairment, reduced urine output, and seizures after taking this medicine. Mycophenolate sodium is an immunosuppressive medication. It may affect the infant's developing immune system and should be avoided in breastfeeding. In some cases, alternative medications with a more favorable safety profile during breastfeeding may be considered.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Mycophenolate Sodium:
- Higher risk of developing lymphoma and other cancers
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Loss of appetite
- Shortness of breath
- Weight loss
- Increased heartbeat
- Headache
- Blood pressure problems
- Anaemia
Serious side effects of Mycophenolate Sodium:
- Infections
- Fever or sore throat
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Low blood cell count
- Severe allergic reactions
Word Of Advice
It is necessary to take the prescribed dose exactly as instructed by your doctor. Inform your doctor about all the medications (prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal) you are taking, as they can interact with this drug. If you plan to conceive or suspect you might be pregnant while taking Mycophenolate sodium, it is important to consult your doctor immediately. They may suggest switching to alternative medications that are safer during pregnancy or adjusting your treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Question
References
- Novartis Ireland Limited, European Medicine Consortium (EMC), [Revised on Nov 2022], [Accessed on 25/05/2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.5560.pdf
- S.E. Marshall, Immunological Factors in Disease, Davidson's Principles and Practice of Medicine, 22nd Edition, 2014, 71-96.
- KD Tripathi, Immunosuppressant Drugs, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th Edition, 2019,.937-945.
- Goodman & Gilman's, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Inflammation, Immunomodulation, and Hematopoiesis, 12th Edition, 2011, 1014.
Disclaimer
The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice; it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.
