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Mycophenolic acid

Generic Name
Mycophenolic acid
Brand Names
Myfortic
Drug Type
Small Molecule
Chemical Formula
C17H20O6
CAS Number
24280-93-1
Unique Ingredient Identifier
HU9DX48N0T
Background

Mycophenolic acid is a potent immunosuppressant agent that inhibits de novo purine biosynthesis. It was derived from Penicillium stoloniferum, and has also shown antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties.. Mycophenolic acid is used in immunosuppressive regimens as part of a triple therapy that includes a calcineurin inhibitor (ciclosporin or tacrolimus) and prednisolone. This regimen can be used in place of the older anti-proliferative azathioprine due to its stronger immunosuppressive potency. However, mycophenolic acid treatment is more expensive and requires therapeutic drug monitoring to optimize efficacy and minimize toxicity. Mycophenolic acid is available as enteric-coated tablets of delayed-release, in an effort to improve upper gastrointestinal adverse events by delaying mycophenolic acid release until it reaches the small intestine. Mycophenolate mofetil, a prodrug of mycophenolic acid, is also prescribed to transplant recipients to prevent organ rejection.

Indication

Mycophenolic acid is an antimetabolite immunosuppressant indicated for prophylaxis of organ rejection in adult patients receiving kidney transplants and in pediatric patients at least 5 years of age and older who are at least 6 months post kidney transplant. Mycophenolic acid is used in combination with cyclosporine and corticosteroids.

Associated Conditions
Kidney Transplant Rejection
Clinical Trials
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