Mycophenolate mofetil
These highlights do not include all the information needed to use MYCOPHENOLATE MOFETIL FOR ORAL SUSPENSION safely and effectively. See full prescribing information for MYCOPHENOLATE MOFETIL FOR ORAL SUSPENSION MYCOPHENOLATE MOFETIL for oral suspension Initial U.S. Approval: 1995
21ff53b0-b4ba-4473-91e4-76ef41681064
HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG LABEL
Feb 12, 2024
Ascend Laboratories, LLC
DUNS: 141250469
Products 1
Detailed information about drug products covered under this FDA approval, including NDC codes, dosage forms, ingredients, and administration routes.
Mycophenolate mofetil
PRODUCT DETAILS
INGREDIENTS (8)
Drug Labeling Information
PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL
PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL
Container Label
Ascend Laboratories, LLC
NDC 67877-230-22
Mycophenolate Mofetil For Oral Suspension USP 200 mg/ml
Rx Only

Carton Label
Ascend Laboratories, LLC
NDC 67877-230-22
Mycophenolate Mofetil For Oral Suspension USP 200 mg/ml
Rx Only

BOXED WARNING SECTION
WARNING: EMBRYOFETAL TOXICITY, MALIGNANCIES and SERIOUS INFECTIONS
INDICATIONS & USAGE SECTION
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE
Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is indicated for the prophylaxis of organ rejection, in adult and pediatric recipients 3 months of age and older of allogeneic kidney [see Clinical Studies (14.1)], heart [see Clinical Studies (14.2)] or liver transplants [see Clinical Studies (14.3)], in combination with other immunosuppressants.
Mycophenolate mofetil is an antimetabolite immunosuppressant indicated for the prophylaxis of organ rejection in adult and pediatric recipients 3 months of age and older of allogeneic kidney, heart or liver transplants, in combination with other immunosuppressants. (1)
CONTRAINDICATIONS SECTION
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS
Allergic reactions to mycophenolate mofetil have been observed; therefore, mycophenolate mofetil is contraindicated in patients with a hypersensitivity to mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), mycophenolic acid (MPA) or any component of the drug product. Mycophenolate mofetil intravenous is contraindicated in patients who are allergic to Polysorbate 80 (TWEEN).
- Hypersensitivity to mycophenolate mofetil, mycophenolic acid or any component of the drug product (4)
- Patients allergic to Polysorbate 80 (present in mycophenolate mofetil IV) (4)
ADVERSE REACTIONS SECTION
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS
The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other
sections of the label:
• Embryofetal Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]
• Lymphomas and Other Malignancies [see Warnings and Precautions 5.2)]
• Serious Infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]
• Blood Dyscrasias: Neutropenia, Pure Red Cell Aplasia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]
• Gastrointestinal Complications [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]
• Acute Inflammatory Syndrome Associated with Mycophenolate Products [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]
6.1 Clinical Trials Experience
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse
reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly
compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect
the rates observed in practice.
An estimated total of 1,557 adult patients received mycophenolate mofetil
during pivotal clinical trials in the prevention of acute organ rejection. Of
these, 991 were included in the three renal studies, 277 were included in one
hepatic study, and 289 were included in one cardiac study. Patients in all
study arms also received cyclosporine and corticosteroids.
The data described below primarily derive from five randomized, active- controlled double-blind 12-month trials of mycophenolate mofetil in de novo kidney (3) heart (1) and liver (1) transplant patients [see Clinical Studies (14.1, 14.2, and 14.3)].
Mycophenolate Mofetil Oral
The incidence of adverse reactions for mycophenolate mofetil was determined in
five randomized, comparative, double-blind trials in the prevention of
rejection in kidney, heart and liver transplant patients (two active-and one
placebo-controlled trials, one active-controlled trial, and one active-
controlled trial, respectively) [see Clinical Studies (14.1, 14.2 and 14.3)].
The three de novo kidney studies with 12-month duration compared two dose levels of oral mycophenolate mofetil (1 g twice daily and 1.5 g twice daily) with azathioprine (2 studies) or placebo (1 study) when administered in combination with cyclosporine (Sandimmune®) and corticosteroids to prevent acute rejection episodes. One study also included anti-thymocyte globulin (ATGAM®) induction therapy.
In the de novo heart transplantation study with 12-month duration, patients received mycophenolate mofetil 1.5 g twice daily (n=289) or azathioprine 1.5 to 3 mg/kg/day (n=289), in combination with cyclosporine (Sandimmune® or Neoral®) and corticosteroids as maintenance immunosuppressive therapy.
In the de novo liver transplantation study with 12-month duration, patients received mycophenolate mofetil 1 g twice daily intravenously for up to 14 days followed by mycophenolate mofetil 1.5 g twice daily orally or azathioprine 1 to 2 mg/kg/day intravenously followed by azathioprine 1 to 2 mg/kg/day orally, in combination with cyclosporine (Neoral®) and corticosteroids as maintenance immunosuppressive therapy. The total number of patients enrolled was 565.
Approximately 53% of the kidney transplant patients, 65% of the heart transplant patients, and 48% of the liver transplant patients were treated for more than 1 year. Adverse reactions reported in ≥20% of patients in the mycophenolate mofetil treatment groups are presented below. The safety data of three kidney transplantation studies are pooled together.
Table 5. Adverse Reactions in Controlled Studies of De Novo Kidney, Heart or Liver Transplantation Reported in ≥20% of Patients in the Mycophenolate Mofetil Group
Adverse drug |
Kidney Studies |
|
|
Heart Study |
|
Liver Study | |
|
Mycophenolate Mofetil |
AZA |
Placebo |
Mycophenolate Mofetil |
AZA |
Mycophenolate Mofetil |
AZA |
|
(n=991) |
(n=326) |
(n=166) |
(n=289) |
(n=289) |
(n=277) |
(n=287) |
|
% |
% |
% |
% |
% |
% |
% |
Infections and infestations | |||||||
Bacterial infections |
39.9 |
33.7 |
37.3 |
|
|
27.4 |
26.5 |
Viral infections |
-a |
|
|
31.1 |
24.9 |
|
|
Blood and lymphatic system disorders | |||||||
Anemia |
20.0 |
23.6 |
2.4 |
45.0 |
47.1 |
43.0 |
53.0 |
Ecchymosis |
|
|
|
20.1 |
9.7 |
|
|
Leukocytosis |
|
|
|
42.6 |
37.4 |
22.4 |
21.3 |
Leukopenia |
28.6 |
24.8 |
4.2 |
34.3 |
43.3 |
45.8 |
39.0 |
Thrombocytopenia |
|
|
|
24.2 |
28.0 |
38.3 |
42.2 |
Metabolism and nutrition disorders | |||||||
Hypercholesterolemia |
|
|
|
46.0 |
43.9 |
|
|
Hyperglycemia |
|
|
|
48.4 |
53.3 |
43.7 |
48.8 |
Hyperkalemia |
|
|
|
|
|
22.0 |
23.7 |
Hypocalcemia |
|
|
|
|
|
30.0 |
30.0 |
Hypokalemia |
|
|
|
32.5 |
26.3 |
37.2 |
41.1 |
Hypomagnesemia |
|
|
|
20.1 |
14.2 |
39.0 |
37.6 |
Psychiatric disorders | |||||||
Depression |
|
|
|
20.1 |
15.2 |
|
|
Insomnia |
|
|
|
43.3 |
39.8 |
52.3 |
47.0 |
Nervous system disorders | |||||||
Dizziness |
|
|
|
34.3 |
33.9 |
|
|
Headache |
|
|
|
58.5 |
55.4 |
53.8 |
49.1 |
Tremor |
|
|
|
26.3 |
25.6 |
33.9 |
35.5 |
Cardiac disorders | |||||||
Tachycardia |
|
|
|
22.8 |
21.8 |
22.0 |
15.7 |
Vascular disorders | |||||||
Hypertension |
27.5 |
32.2 |
19.3 |
78.9 |
74.0 |
62.1 |
59.6 |
Hypotension |
|
|
|
34.3 |
40.1 |
|
|
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders | |||||||
Cough |
|
|
|
40.5 |
32.2 |
|
|
Dyspnea |
|
|
|
44.3 |
44.3 |
31.0 |
30.3 |
Pleural effusion |
|
|
|
|
|
34.3 |
35.9 |
Gastrointestinal disorders | |||||||
Abdominal pain |
22.4 |
23.0 |
11.4 |
41.9 |
39.4 |
62.5 |
51.2 |
Constipation |
|
|
|
43.6 |
38.8 |
37.9 |
38.3 |
Decreased appetite |
|
|
|
|
|
25.3 |
17.1 |
Diarrhea |
30.4 |
20.9 |
13.9 |
52.6 |
39.4 |
51.3 |
49.8 |
Dyspepsia |
|
|
|
22.1 |
22.1 |
22.4 |
20.9 |
Nausea |
|
|
|
56.1 |
60.2 |
54.5 |
51.2 |
Vomiting |
|
|
|
39.1 |
34.6 |
32.9 |
33.4 |
Hepatobiliary disorders | |||||||
Blood lactate |
|
|
|
23.5 |
18.3 |
|
|
Hepatic enzyme increased |
|
|
|
|
|
24.9 |
19.2 |
Skin and subcutaneous tissues disorders | |||||||
Rash |
|
|
|
26.0 |
20.8 |
|
|
Renal and urinary disorders | |||||||
Blood creatinine |
|
|
|
42.2 |
39.8 |
|
|
Blood urea increased |
|
|
|
36.7 |
34.3 |
|
|
General disorders and administration site conditions | |||||||
Asthenia |
|
|
|
49.1 |
41.2 |
35.4 |
33.8 |
Edemab |
21.0 |
28.2 |
8.4 |
67.5 |
55.7 |
48.4 |
47.7 |
Painc |
24.8 |
32.2 |
9.6 |
79.2 |
77.5 |
74.0 |
77.5 |
Pyrexia |
|
|
|
56.4 |
53.6 |
52.3 |
56.1 |
a : "-" Indicates that the incidence was below the cutoff value of 20% for
inclusion in the table.
b : "Edema" includes peripheral edema, facial edema, scrotal edema.
c : "Pain" includes musculoskeletal pain (myalgia, neck pain, back pain).
In the three de novo kidney studies, patients receiving 2 g/day of mycophenolate mofetil had an overall better safety profile than did patients receiving 3 g/day of mycophenolate mofetil.
Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD, pseudolymphoma) developed in 0.4% to 1% of patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil (2 g or 3 g daily) with other immunosuppressive agents in controlled clinical trials of kidney, heart and liver transplant patients followed for at least 1 year [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. Non-melanoma skin carcinomas occurred in 1.6% to 4.2% of patients, other types of malignancy in 0.7% to 2.1% of patients. Three-year safety data in kidney and heart transplant patients did not reveal any unexpected changes in incidence of malignancy compared to the 1-year data. In pediatric patients, PTLD was observed in 1.35% (2/148) by 12 months post- transplant.
Cytopenias, including leukopenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia and pancytopenia are a known risk associated with mycophenolate and may lead or contribute to the occurrence of infections and hemorrhages [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]. Severe neutropenia (ANC <0.5 x 103/μL) developed in up to 2% of kidney transplant patients, up to 2.8% of heart transplant patients and up to 3.6% of liver transplant patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil 3 g daily [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) and Dosage and Administration (2.5)].
The most common opportunistic infections in patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil with other immunosuppressants were mucocutaneous candida, CMV viremia/syndrome, and herpes simplex. The proportion of patients with CMV viremia/syndrome was 13.5%. In patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil (2 g or 3 g) in controlled studies for prevention of kidney, heart or liver rejection, fatal infection/sepsis occurred in approximately 2% of kidney and heart patients and in 5% of liver patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
The most serious gastrointestinal disorders reported were ulceration and hemorrhage, which are known risks associated with mycophenolate mofetil. Mouth, esophageal, gastric, duodenal, and intestinal ulcers often complicated by hemorrhage, as well as hematemesis, melena, and hemorrhagic forms of gastritis and colitis were commonly reported during the pivotal clinical trials, while the most common gastrointestinal disorders were diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Endoscopic investigation of patients with mycophenolate mofetil- related diarrhea revealed isolated cases of intestinal villous atrophy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].
The following adverse reactions were reported with 3% to <20% incidence in kidney, heart, and liver transplant patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil, in combination with cyclosporine and corticosteroids.
Table 6. Adverse Reactions in Controlled Studies of De Novo Kidney, Heart or Liver Transplantation Reported in 3% to <20% of Patients Treated with Mycophenolate Mofetil in Combination with Cyclosporine and Corticosteroids
System Organ Class |
Adverse Reactions |
Body as a Whole |
cellulitis, chills, hernia, malaise |
Infections and Infestations |
fungal infections |
Hematologic and Lymphatic |
coagulation disorder, ecchymosis, pancytopenia |
Urogenital |
hematuria |
Cardiovascular |
hypotension |
Metabolic and Nutritional |
acidosis, alkaline phosphatase increased, hyperlipemia, hypophosphatemia, weight loss |
Digestive |
esophagitis, flatulence, gastritis, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, hepatitis, ileus, nausea and vomiting, stomach ulcer, stomatitis |
Neoplasm benign, malignant and unspecified |
neoplasm |
Skin and Appendages |
skin benign neoplasm, skin carcinoma |
Psychiatric |
confusional state |
Nervous |
hypertonia, paresthesia, somnolence |
Musculoskeletal |
arthralgia, myasthenia |
Pediatrics
The type and frequency of adverse events in a clinical study for prevention of
kidney allograft rejection in 100 pediatric patients 3 months to 18 years of
age dosed with mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension 600 mg/m2 twice daily
(up to 1 g twice daily) were generally similar to those observed in adult
patients dosed with mycophenolate mofetil capsules at a dose of 1 g twice
daily with the exception of abdominal pain, fever, infection, pain, sepsis,
diarrhea, vomiting, pharyngitis, respiratory tract infection, hypertension,
leukopenia, and anemia, which were observed in a higher proportion in
pediatric patients.
Safety information in pediatric heart transplant or pediatric liver transplant patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil is supported by an open-label study in pediatric liver transplant patients and publications; the type and frequency of the reported adverse reactions are consistent with those observed in pediatric patients following renal transplant and in adults.
Geriatrics
Geriatric patients (≥65 years), particularly those who are receiving
mycophenolate mofetil as part of a combination immunosuppressive regimen, may
be at increased risk of certain infections (including cytomegalovirus [CMV]
tissue invasive disease) and possibly gastrointestinal hemorrhage and
pulmonary edema, compared to younger individuals [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) and Adverse Reactions (6.1)].
Mycophenolate Mofetil Intravenous
The safety profile of mycophenolate mofetil intravenous was determined from a
single, double-blind, controlled comparative study of the safety of 2 g/day of
intravenous and oral mycophenolate mofetil in kidney transplant patients in
the immediate post-transplant period (administered for the first 5 days). The
potential venous irritation of mycophenolate mofetil intravenous was evaluated
by comparing the adverse reactions attributable to peripheral venous infusion
of mycophenolate mofetil intravenous with those observed in the intravenous
placebo group; patients in the placebo group received active medication by the
oral route.
Adverse reactions attributable to peripheral venous infusion were phlebitis
and thrombosis, both observed at 4% in patients treated with mycophenolate
mofetil intravenous.
6.2 Postmarketing Experience
The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of mycophenolate mofetil. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure:
- Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: Congenital malformations and spontaneous abortions, mainly in the first trimester, have been reported following exposure to mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in combination with other immunosuppressants during pregnancy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1), and Use in Specific Populations (8.1), (8.3)]. Congenital malformations include:
- Facial malformations: cleft lip, cleft palate, micrognathia, hypertelorism of the orbits
- Abnormalities of the ear and eye: abnormally formed or absent external/middle ear, coloboma, microphthalmos
- Malformations of the fingers: polydactyly, syndactyly, brachydactyly
- Cardiac abnormalities: atrial and ventricular septal defects
- Esophageal malformations: esophageal atresia
- Nervous system malformations: such as spina bifida.
- Cardiovascular: Venous thrombosis has been reported in patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil administered intravenously
- Digestive: Colitis, pancreatitis
- Hematologic and Lymphatic: Bone marrow failure, cases of pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) and hypogammaglobulinemia have been reported in patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil in combination with other immunosuppressive agents [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
- Immune: Hypersensitivity, hypogammaglobinemia.
- Infections: Meningitis, infectious endocarditis, tuberculosis, atypical mycobacterial infection, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, BK virus infection, viral reactivation of hepatitis B and hepatitis C, protozoal infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
- Respiratory: Bronchiectasis, interstitial lung disease, fatal pulmonary fibrosis, have been reported rarely and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pulmonary symptoms ranging from dyspnea to respiratory failure in post-transplant patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil.****
- Vascular: Lymphocele
The most common adverse reactions in clinical trials (20 % or greater) include diarrhea, leukopenia, infection, vomiting, and there is evidence of a higher frequency of certain types of infections e.g., opportunistic infection. (6.1)
To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Ascend Laboratories, LLC at 1-877-272-7901 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or****www.fda.gov/medwatch.com
DRUG INTERACTIONS SECTION
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS
7.1 Effect of Other Drugs on Mycophenolate Mofetil
Table 7. Drug Interactions with Mycophenolate Mofetil that Affect Mycophenolic Acid (MPA) Exposure
Antacids with Magnesium or Aluminum Hydroxide | |
Clinical Impact |
Concomitant use with an antacid containing magnesium or aluminum hydroxide decreases MPA systemic exposure [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], which may reduce mycophenolate mofetil efficacy. |
Prevention or Management |
Administer magnesium or aluminum hydroxide containing antacids at least 2h after mycophenolate mofetil administration. |
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) | |
Clinical Impact |
Concomitant use with PPIs decreases MPA systemic exposure [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], which may reduce mycophenolate mofetil efficacy |
Prevention or Management |
Monitor patients for alterations in efficacy when PPIs are co-administered with mycophenolate mofetil |
Examples |
Lansoprazole, pantoprazole |
Drugs that Interfere with Enterohepatic Recirculation | |
Clinical Impact |
Concomitant use with drugs that directly interfere with enterohepatic recirculation, or indirectly interfere with enterohepatic recirculation by altering the gastrointestinal flora, can decrease MPA systemic exposure [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], which may reduce mycophenolate mofetil efficacy. |
Prevention or Management |
Monitor patients for alterations in efficacy or mycophenolate mofetil related adverse reactions when these drugs are co-administered with mycophenolate mofetil |
Examples |
Cyclosporine A, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, bile acid sequestrants (cholestyramine), rifampin as well as aminoglycoside, cephalosporin, fluoroquinolone and penicillin classes of antimicrobials |
Drugs Modulating Glucuronidation | |
Clinical Impact |
Concomitant use with drugs inducing glucuronidation decreases MPA systemic exposure, potentially reducing mycophenolate mofetil efficacy, while use with drugs inhibiting glucuronidation increases MPA systemic exposure [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], which may increase the risk of mycophenolate mofetil related adverse reactions. |
Prevention or Management |
Monitor patients for alterations in efficacy or mycophenolate mofetil related adverse reactions when these drugs are co-administered with mycophenolate mofetil |
Examples |
Telmisartan (induces glucuronidation); isavuconazole (inhibits glucuronidation). |
Calcium Free Phosphate Binders | |
Clinical Impact |
Concomitant use with calcium free phosphate binders decrease MPA systemic exposure [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], which may reduce mycophenolate mofetil efficacy. |
Prevention or Management |
Administer calcium free phosphate binders at least 2 hours after mycophenolate mofetil |
Examples |
Sevelamer |
7.2 Effect of Mycophenolate Mofetil on Other Drugs
Table 8. Drug Interactions with Mycophenolate Mofetil that Affect Other Drugs
Drugs that Undergo Renal Tubular Secretion | |
Clinical Impact |
When concomitantly used with mycophenolate mofetil, its metabolite MPAG, may compete with drugs eliminated by renal tubular secretion which may increase plasma concentrations and/or adverse reactions associated with these drugs |
Prevention or Management |
Monitor for drug-related adverse reactions in patients with renal impairment |
Examples |
Acyclovir, ganciclovir, probenecid, valacyclovir, valganciclovir |
Combination Oral Contraceptives | |
Clinical Impact |
Concomitant use with mycophenolate mofetil decreased the systemic exposure to levonorgestrel, but did not affect the systemic exposure to ethinylestradiol [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], which may result in reduced combination oral contraceptive effectiveness. |
Prevention or Management |
Use additional barrier contraceptive methods. |
- See FPI for drugs that may interfere with systemic exposure and reduce mycophenolate mofetil efficacy: antacids with magnesium or aluminum hydroxide, proton pump inhibitors, drugs that interfere with enterohepatic recirculation, telmisartan, calcium-free phosphate binders. (7.1)
- Mycophenolate mofetil may reduce effectiveness of oral contraceptives. Use of additional barrier contraceptive methods is recommended. (7.2)
- See FPI for other important drug interactions. (7)
RECENT MAJOR CHANGES SECTION
RECENT MAJOR CHANGES
Indications and Usage, Pediatric Heart or Liver Transplants (1)…………… 6/2022
Dosage and Administration, Dosage Recommendations for Heart Transplant
Patients (2.3)………6/2022
Dosage and Administration, Dosage Recommendations for Liver Transplant
Patients (2.4)…6/2022
Warnings and Precautions, Serious Infections (5.3)……..10/2021
Warnings and Precautions, Acute Inflammatory Syndrome Associated with
Mycophenolate Products (5.7)..10/2021
DOSAGE FORMS & STRENGTHS SECTION
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS
Mycophenolate mofetil is available in the following dosage forms and
strengths:
• White to off-white powder, 200 mg/mL upon reconstitution.
35 g mycophenolate mofetil, powder for reconstitution (3)
OVERDOSAGE SECTION
10 OVERDOSAGE
Possible signs and symptoms of acute overdose include hematological
abnormalities such as leukopenia and neutropenia, and gastrointestinal
symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and dyspepsia.
The experience with overdose of mycophenolate mofetil in humans is limited.
The reported effects associated with overdose fall within the known safety
profile of the drug. The highest dose administered to kidney transplant
patients in clinical trials has been 4 g/day. In limited experience with heart
and liver transplant patients in clinical trials, the highest doses used were
4 g/day or 5 g/day. At doses of 4 g/day or 5 g/day, there appears to be a
higher rate, compared to the use of 3 g/day or less, of gastrointestinal
intolerance (nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea), and occasional hematologic
abnormalities, particularly neutropenia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
Treatment and Management
MPA and the phenolic glucuronide metabolite of MPA (MPAG) are usually not
removed by hemodialysis. However, at high MPAG plasma concentrations (>100
mcg/mL), small amounts of MPAG are removed. By increasing excretion of the
drug, MPA can be removed by bile acid sequestrants, such as cholestyramine
[see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
DESCRIPTION SECTION
11 DESCRIPTION
Mycophenolate mofetil is an antimetabolite immunosuppressant. It is the
2morpholinoethyl ester of mycophenolic acid (MPA), an immunosuppressive agent;
inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH) inhibitor.
The chemical name for mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is 2-morpholinoethyl (E)-6
(1,3dihydro-4-hydroxy-6-methoxy-7-methyl-3-oxo-5-isobenzofuranyl)-4-methyl-4-hexenoate.
It has an empirical formula of C23H31NO7, a molecular weight of 433.50, and
the following structural formula:

Mycophenolate mofetil is a white to off-white crystalline powder. It is slightly soluble in water (43 mcg/mL at pH 7.4); the solubility increases in acidic medium (4.27 mg/mL at pH 3.6). It is freely soluble in acetone, soluble in methanol, and sparingly soluble in ethanol. The apparent partition coefficient in 1-octanol/water (pH 7.4) buffer solution is 238. The pKa values for MMF are 5.6 for the morpholino group and 8.5 for the phenolic group.
Mycophenolate mofetil USP for oral suspension is available for oral administration as a powder for oral suspension, which when constituted contains 200 mg/mL of mycophenolate mofetil Inactive ingredients in mycophenolate mofetil for oral solution 200 mg include Sorbitol, sodium citrate dehydrate, citric acid anhydrous, methylparaben, xanthan gum, aspartame, soybean lecithin and N &A gum fruit flavor.
FDA approved dissolution test specifications differ from USP.
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY SECTION
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
12.1 Mechanism of Action
Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is absorbed following oral administration and hydrolyzed to mycophenolic acid (MPA), the active metabolite. MPA is a selective uncompetitive inhibitor of the two isoforms (type I and type II) of inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH) leading to inhibition of the de novo pathway of guanosine nucleotide synthesis and blocks DNA synthesis. The mechanism of action of MPA is multifaceted and includes effects on cellular checkpoints responsible for metabolic programming of lymphocytes. MPA shifts transcriptional activities in lymphocytes from a proliferative state to catabolic processes. In vitro studies suggest that MPA modulates transcriptional activities in human CD4+ T-lymphocytes by suppressing the Akt/mTOR and STAT5 pathways that are relevant to metabolism and survival, leading to an anergic state of T-cells whereby the cells become less responsive to antigenic stimulation. Additionally, MPA enhanced the expression of negative co-stimulators such as CD70, PD-1, CTLA-4, and transcription factor FoxP3 as well as decreased the expression of positive co-stimulators CD27 and CD28.
MPA decreases proliferative responses of T- and B-lymphocytes to both mitogenic and allo-antigenic stimulation, antibody responses, as well as the production of cytokines from lymphocytes and monocytes such as GM-CSF, IFN-Ɣ, IL-17, and TNF-α. Additionally, MPA prevents the glycosylation of lymphocyte and monocyte glycoproteins that are involved in intercellular adhesion to endothelial cells and may inhibit recruitment of leukocytes into sites of inflammation and graft rejection.
Overall, the effect of MPA is cytostatic and reversible.
12.2 Pharmacodynamics
There is a lack of information regarding the pharmacodynamic effects of MMF.
12.3 Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
Following oral and intravenous administration, MMF undergoes complete
conversion to MPA, the active metabolite. In 12 healthy volunteers, the mean
absolute bioavailability of oral MMF relative to intravenous MMF was 94%. Two
500 mg mycophenolate mofetil tablets have been shown to be bioequivalent to
four 250 mg mycophenolate mofetil capsules. Five mL of the 200 mg/mL
constituted mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension have been shown to be
bioequivalent to four 250 mg capsules.
The mean (±SD) pharmacokinetic parameters estimates for MPA following the
administration of MMF given as single doses to healthy volunteers, and
multiple doses to kidney, heart, and liver transplant patients, are shown in
Table 10. The area under the plasma-concentration time curve (AUC) for MPA
appears to increase in a dose-proportional fashion in kidney transplant
patients receiving multiple oral doses of MMF up to a daily dose of 3 g (1.5 g
twice daily) (see Table 10).
Table 10. Pharmacokinetic Parameters for MPA [mean (±SD)] Following Administration of MMF to Healthy Volunteers (Single Dose), and Kidney, Heart, and Liver Transplant Patients (Multiple Doses)
Healthy Volunteers |
Dose/Route |
Tmax (h) |
Cmax (mcg/mL) |
Total AUC (mcg•h/mL) |
Single dose |
1 g/oral |
0.80 |
24.5 |
63.9 |
Kidney Transplant Patients (twice daily dosing) Time After Transplantation |
Dose/Route |
Tmax (h) |
Cmax (mcg/mL) |
Interdosing Interval AUC**(0-12h)** |
5 days |
1 g/iv |
1.58 |
12.0 |
40.8 |
6 days |
1 g/oral |
1.33 |
10.7 |
32.9 |
Early (Less than 40 days) |
1 g/oral |
1.31 |
8.16 |
27.3 |
Early (Less than 40 days) |
1.5 g/oral |
1.21 |
13.5 |
38.4 |
Late (Greater than 3 months) |
1.5 g/oral |
0.90 |
24.1 |
65.3 |
Heart transplant Patients (twice daily dosing) Time After Transplantation |
Dose/Route |
Tmax (h) |
Cmax (mcg/mL) |
Interdosing Interval AUC**(0-12h)**** (mcg•h/mL**) |
Early (Day before discharge) |
1.5 g/oral |
1.8 |
11.5 |
43.3 |
Late (Greater than 6 months) |
1.5 g/oral |
1.1 |
20.0 |
54.1a |
Liver transplant Patients (twice daily dosing) Time After Transplantation |
Dose/Route |
Tmax (h) |
Cmax (mcg/mL) |
Interdosing Interval AUC**(0-12h)**** (mcg•h/mL)** |
4 to 9 days |
1 g/iv |
1.50(±0.517) |
17.0(±12.7) |
34.0 (±17.4) |
Early (5 to 8 days) |
1.5 g/oral |
1.15 (±0.432) |
13.1 (±6.76) |
29.2(±11.9) |
Late (Greater than 6 months) |
1.5 g/oral |
1.54 (±0.51) |
19.3 (±11.7) |
49.3(±14.8) |
aAUC(0-12h) values quoted are extrapolated from data from samples collected over 4 hours.
In the early post-transplant period (less than 40 days post-transplant), kidney, heart, and liver transplant patients had mean MPA AUCs approximately 20% to 41% lower and mean Cmax approximately 32% to 44% lower compared to the late transplant period (i.e., 3 to 6 months post-transplant) (non-stationarity in MPA pharmacokinetics).
Mean MPA AUC values following administration of 1 g twice daily intravenous mycophenolate mofetil over 2 hours to kidney transplant patients for 5 days were about 24% higher than those observed after oral administration of a similar dose in the immediate post-transplant phase.
In liver transplant patients, administration of 1 g twice daily intravenous mycophenolate mofetil followed by 1.5 g twice daily oral mycophenolate mofetil resulted in mean MPA AUC estimates similar to those found in kidney transplant patients administered 1 g mycophenolate mofetil twice daily.
Effect of Food
Food (27 g fat, 650 calories) had no effect on the extent of absorption (MPA
AUC) of MMF when administered at doses of 1.5 g twice daily to kidney
transplant patients. However, MPA Cmax was decreased by 40% in the presence of
food [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)].
Distribution
The mean (±SD) apparent volume of distribution of MPA in 12 healthy volunteers
was approximately 3.6 (±1.5) L/kg. At clinically relevant concentrations, MPA
is 97% bound to plasma albumin. The phenolic glucuronide metabolite of MPA
(MPAG) is 82% bound to plasma albumin at MPAG concentration ranges that are
normally seen in stable kidney transplant patients; however, at higher MPAG
concentrations (observed in patients with kidney impairment or delayed kidney
graft function), the binding of MPA may be reduced as a result of competition
between MPAG and MPA for protein binding. Mean blood to plasma ratio of
radioactivity concentrations was approximately 0.6 indicating that MPA and
MPAG do not extensively distribute into the cellular fractions of blood.
In vitro studies to evaluate the effect of other agents on the binding of MPA to human serum albumin (HSA) or plasma proteins showed that salicylate (at 25 mg/dL with human serum albumin) and MPAG (at ≥ 460 mcg/mL with plasma proteins) increased the free fraction of MPA. MPA at concentrations as high as 100 mcg/mL had little effect on the binding of warfarin, digoxin or propranolol, but decreased the binding of theophylline from 53% to 45% and phenytoin from 90% to 87%.
Elimination
Mean (±SD) apparent half-life and plasma clearance of MPA are 17.9 (±6.5)
hours and 193 (±48) mL/min following oral administration and 16.6 (±5.8) hours
and 177 (±31) mL/min following intravenous administration, respectively.
Metabolism
The parent drug, MMF, can be measured systemically during the intravenous
infusion; however, approximately 5 minutes after the infusion is stopped or
after oral administration, MMF concentrations are below the limit of
quantitation (0.4 mcg/mL).
Metabolism to MPA occurs pre-systemically after oral dosing. MPA is
metabolized principally by glucuronyl transferase to form MPAG, which is not
pharmacologically active. In vivo, MPAG is converted to MPA during
enterohepatic recirculation. The following metabolites of the 2-hydroxyethyl-
morpholino moiety are also recovered in the urine following oral
administration of MMF to healthy subjects: N-(2-carboxymethyl)-morpholine,
N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-morpholine, and the N-oxide of
N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-morpholine.
Due to the enterohepatic recirculation of MPAG/MPA, secondary peaks in the
plasma MPA concentration-time profile are usually observed 6 to 12 hours post-
dose. Bile sequestrants, such as cholestyramine, reduce MPA AUC by interfering
with this enterohepatic recirculation of the drug [see Overdosage (10) and Drug Interaction Studies below].
Excretion
Negligible amount of drug is excreted as MPA (less than 1% of dose) in the
urine. Orally administered radiolabeled MMF resulted in complete recovery of
the administered dose, with 93% of the administered dose recovered in the
urine and 6% recovered in feces. Most (about 87%) of the administered dose is
excreted in the urine as MPAG. At clinically encountered concentrations, MPA
and MPAG are usually not removed by hemodialysis. However, at high MPAG plasma
concentrations (> 100 mcg/mL), small amounts of MPAG are removed.
Increased plasma concentrations of MMF metabolites (MPA 50% increase and MPAG
about a 3-fold to 6-fold increase) are observed in patients with renal
insufficiency [see Specific Populations]
Specific Populations
Patients with Renal Impairment
The mean (±SD) pharmacokinetic parameters for MPA following the administration
of oral MMF given as single doses to non-transplant subjects with renal
impairment are presented inTable 11.
****In a single-dose study, MMF was administered as a capsule or as an
intravenous infusion over 40 minutes. Plasma MPA AUC observed after oral
dosing to volunteers with severe chronic renal impairment (GFR less than 25
mL/min/1.73 m2) was about 75% higher relative to that observed in healthy
volunteers (GFR > 80 mL/min/1.73 m2). In addition, the single-dose plasma MPAG
AUC was 3-fold to 6-fold higher in volunteers with severe renal impairment
than in volunteers with mild renal impairment or healthy volunteers,
consistent with the known renal elimination of MPAG. No data are available on
the safety of long-term exposure to this level of MPAG.
Plasma MPA AUC observed after single-dose (1 g) intravenous dosing to volunteers (n=4) with severe chronic renal impairment (GFR less than 25 mL/min/1.73 m2) was 62.4 mcg•h/mL (±19.3). Multiple dosing of MMF in patients with severe chronic renal impairment has not been studied.
Patients with Delayed Graft Function or Nonfunction
In patients with delayed renal graft function post-transplant, mean MPA
AUC(0-12h) was comparable to that seen in post-transplant patients without
delayed renal graft function. There is a potential for a transient increase in
the free fraction and concentration of plasma MPA in patients with delayed
renal graft function. However, dose adjustment does not appear to be necessary
in patients with delayed renal graft function. Mean plasma MPAG AUC(0-12h) was
2-fold to 3-fold higher than in post-transplant patients without delayed renal
graft function [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].
In eight patients with primary graft non-function following kidney
transplantation, plasma concentrations of MPAG accumulated about 6-fold to
8-fold after multiple dosing for 28 days. Accumulation of MPA was about 1-fold
to 2-fold.
The pharmacokinetics of MMF are not altered by hemodialysis. Hemodialysis
usually does not remove MPA or MPAG. At high concentrations of MPAG (greater
than 100 mcg/mL), hemodialysis removes only small amounts of MPAG.
Patients with Hepatic Impairment
The mean (± SD) pharmacokinetic parameters for MPA following the
administration of oral MMF given as single doses to non-transplant subjects
with hepatic impairment is presented inTable 11.
In a single-dose (1 g oral) study of 18 volunteers with alcoholic cirrhosis
and 6 healthy volunteers, hepatic MPA glucuronidation processes appeared to be
relatively unaffected by hepatic parenchymal disease when pharmacokinetic
parameters of healthy volunteers and alcoholic cirrhosis patients within this
study were compared. However, it should be noted that for unexplained reasons,
the healthy volunteers in this study had about a 50% lower AUC as compared to
healthy volunteers in other studies, thus making comparisons between
volunteers with alcoholic cirrhosis and healthy volunteers difficult. In a
single-dose (1 g intravenous) study of 6 volunteers with severe hepatic
impairment (aminopyrine breath test less than 0.2% of dose) due to alcoholic
cirrhosis, MMF was rapidly converted to MPA. MPA AUC was 44.1 mcg•h/mL
(±15.5).
Table 11. Pharmacokinetic Parameters for MPA [mean (±SD)] Following Single Doses of MMF Capsules in Chronic Renal and Hepatic Impairment
Pharmacokinetic Parameters for Renal Impairment | ||||
Dose |
Tmax (h) |
Cmax (mcg/mL) |
AUC**(0-96h)**** (mcg•h/mL)** | |
Healthy Volunteers |
1 g |
0.75 |
25.3 |
45.0 |
Mild Renal Impairment |
1 g |
0.75 (±0.27) |
26.0 (±3.82) |
59.9 (±12.9) |
Moderate Renal Impairment |
1 g |
0.75 (±0.27) |
19.0 (±13.2) |
52.9 (±25.5) |
Severe Renal Impairment GFR less than 25 mL/min/1.73 m2 (n=7) |
1 g |
1.00 (±0.41) |
16.3 (±10.8) |
78.6 (±46.4) |
Pharmacokinetic Parameters for Hepatic Impairment | ||||
|
Dose |
Tmax (h) |
Cmax (mcg/mL) |
AUC**(0-48h)**** (mcg•h/mL)** |
Healthy Volunteers (n=6) |
1 g |
0.63 (±0.14) |
24.3 (±5.73) |
29.0 (±5.78) |
Alcoholic Cirrhosis (n=18) |
1 g |
0.85 (±0.58) |
22.4 (±10.1) |
29.8 (±10.7) |
Pediatric Patients
The pharmacokinetic parameters of MPA and MPAG have been evaluated in 55
pediatric patients (ranging from 1 year to 18 years of age) receiving
mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension at a dose of 600 mg/m2 twice daily
(up to a maximum of 1 g twice daily) after allogeneic kidney transplantation.
The pharmacokinetic data for MPA is provided inTable 12.
Table 12. Mean (±SD) Computed Pharmacokinetic Parameters for MPA by Age and Time after Allogeneic Kidney Transplantation
Age Group (n) |
Time |
Tmax (h) |
Dose Adjusteda C****max |
Dose Adjusteda AUC0-12 (mcg•h/mL) |
1 to less than 2 yr (6)d 1 to less than 6 yr (17) 6 to less than 12 yr (16) 12 to 18 yr (21) |
Early (Day 7) |
3.03 (4.70) 1.63 (2.85) 0.940 (0.546) 1.16 (0.830) |
10.3 (5.80) 13.2 (7.16) 13.1 (6.30) 11.7 (10.7) |
22.5 (6.66) 27.4 (9.54) 33.2 (12.1) 26.3 (9.14)b |
1 to less than 2 yr (4)d 1 to less than 6 yr (15) 6 to less than 12 yr (14) 12 to 18 yr (17) |
Late (Month 3) |
0.725 (0.276) 0.989 (0.511) 1.21 (0.532) 0.978 (0.484) |
23.8 (13.4) 22.7 (10.1) 27.8 (14.3) 17.9 (9.57) |
47.4 (14.7) 49.7 (18.2) 61.9 (19.6) 53.6 (20.3)c |
1 to less than 2 yr (4)d 1 to less than 6 yr (12) 6 to less than 12 yr (11) 12 to 18 yr (14) |
Late (Month 9) |
0.604 (0.208) 0.869 (0.479) 1.12 (0.462) 1.09 (0.518) |
25.6 (4.25) 30.4 (9.16) 29.2 (12.6) 18.1 (7.29) |
55.8 (11.6) 61.0 (10.7) 66.8 (21.2) 56.7 (14.0) |
a adjusted to a dose of 600 mg/m2
b n=20
c n=16
d a subset of 1 to less than 6 yr
The mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension dose of 600 mg/m2 twice daily (up to a maximum of 1 g twice daily) achieved mean MPA AUC values in pediatric patients similar to those seen in adult kidney transplant patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil capsules at a dose of 1 g twice daily in the early post- transplant period. There was wide variability in the data. As observed in adults, early post-transplant MPA AUC values were approximately 45% to 53% lower than those observed in the later post-transplant period (>3 months). MPA AUC values were similar in the early and late post-transplant period across the 1 to 18-year age range.
A comparison of dose-normalized (to 600 mg/m2) MPA AUC values in 12 pediatric
kidney transplant patients less than 6 years of age at 9 months post-
transplant with those values in 7 pediatric liver transplant patients [median age 17 months (range: 10 to 60 months)] and at 6 months and beyond post-
transplant revealed that, at the same dose, there were on average 23% lower
AUC values in the pediatric liver compared to pediatric kidney patients. This
is consistent with the need for higher dosing in adult liver transplant
patients compared to kidney transplant patients to achieve the same exposure.
In adult transplant patients administered the same dosage of mycophenolate
mofetil, there is similar MPA exposure among kidney transplant and heart
transplant patients. Based on the established similarity in MPA exposure
between pediatric kidney transplant and adult kidney transplant patients at
their respective approved doses, it is expected that MPA exposure at the
recommended dosage will be similar in pediatric heart transplant and adult
heart transplant patients.
Male and Female Patients
Data obtained from several studies were pooled to look at any gender-related
differences in the pharmacokinetics of MPA (data were adjusted to 1 g oral
dose). Mean (±SD) MPA AUC(0-12h) for males (n=79) was 32.0 (±14.5) and for
females (n=41) was 36.5 (±18.8) mcg•h/mL while mean (±SD) MPA Cmax was 9.96
(±6.19) in the males and 10.6 (±5.64) mcg/mL in the females. These differences
are not of clinical significance.
Geriatric Patients
The pharmacokinetics of mycophenolate mofetil and its metabolites have not
been found to be altered in geriatric transplant patients when compared to
younger transplant patients.
Drug Interaction Studies
Acyclovir
Coadministration of MMF (1 g) and acyclovir (800 mg) to 12 healthy volunteers
resulted in no significant change in MPA AUC and Cmax. However, MPAG and
acyclovir plasma AUCs were increased 10.6% and 21.9%, respectively.
Antacids with Magnesium and Aluminum Hydroxides
Absorption of a single dose of MMF (2g) was decreased when administered to 10
rheumatoid arthritis patients also taking Maalox®TC (10 mL qid). The Cmax and
AUC(0-24h) for MPA were 33% and 17% lower, respectively, than when MMF was
administered alone under fasting conditions.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
Coadministration of PPIs (e.g., lansoprazole, pantoprazole) in single doses to
healthy volunteers and multiple doses to transplant patients receiving
mycophenolate mofetil has been reported to reduce the exposure to MPA. An
approximate reduction of 30 to 70% in the Cmax and 25% to 35% in the AUC of
MPA has been observed, possibly due to a decrease in MPA solubility at an
increased gastric pH.
Cholestyramine
Following single-dose administration of 1.5 g MMF to 12 healthy volunteers
pretreated with 4 g three times a day of cholestyramine for 4 days, MPA AUC
decreased approximately 40%. This decrease is consistent with interruption of
enterohepatic recirculation which may be due to binding of recirculating MPAG
with cholestyramine in the intestine.
Cyclosporine
Cyclosporine (Sandimmune®) pharmacokinetics (at doses of 275 to 415 mg/day)
were unaffected by single and multiple doses of 1.5 g twice daily of MMF in 10
stable kidney transplant patients. The mean (±SD) AUC (0-12h) and Cmax of
cyclosporine after 14 days of multiple doses of MMF were 3290 (±822) ng•h/mL
and 753 (±161) ng/mL, respectively, compared to 3245 (±1088) ng•h/mL and 700
(±246) ng/mL, respectively, 1 week before administration of MMF.
Cyclosporine A interferes with MPA enterohepatic recirculation. In kidney
transplant patients, mean MPA exposure (AUC(0-12h)) was approximately 30-50%
greater when MMF was administered without cyclosporine compared with when MMF
was coadministered with cyclosporine. This interaction is due to cyclosporine
inhibition of multidrug-resistance-associated protein 2 (MRP-2) transporter in
the biliary tract, thereby preventing the excretion of MPAG into the bile that
would lead to enterohepatic recirculation of MPA. This information should be
taken into consideration when MMF is used without cyclosporine.
Drugs Affecting Glucuronidation
Concomitant administration of drugs inhibiting glucuronidation of MPA may
increase MPA exposure (e.g., increase of MPA AUC(0-∞) by 35% was observed with
concomitant administration of isavuconazole).
Concomitant administration of telmisartan and mycophenolate mofetil resulted
in an approximately 30% decrease in MPA concentrations. Telmisartan changes
MPA’s elimination by enhancing PPAR gamma (peroxisome proliferator-activated
receptor gamma) expression, which in turn results in an enhanced UGT1A9
expression and glucuronidation activity.
Ganciclovir
Following single-dose administration to 12 stable kidney transplant patients,
no pharmacokinetic interaction was observed between MMF (1.5 g) and
intravenous ganciclovir (5 mg/kg). Mean (±SD) ganciclovir AUC and Cmax (n=10)
were 54.3 (±19.0) mcg•h/mL and 11.5 (±1.8) mcg/mL, respectively, after
coadministration of the two drugs, compared to 51.0 (±17.0) mcg•h/mL and 10.6
(±2.0) mcg/mL, respectively, after administration of intravenous ganciclovir
alone. The mean (±SD) AUC and Cmax of MPA (n=12) after coadministration were
80.9 (±21.6) mcg•h/mL and 27.8 (±13.9) mcg/mL, respectively, compared to
values of 80.3 (±16.4) mcg•h/mL and 30.9 (±11.2) mcg/mL, respectively, after
administration of MMF alone.
Oral Contraceptives
A study of coadministration of mycophenolate mofetil (1 g twice daily) and
combined oral contraceptives containing ethinylestradiol (0.02 mg to 0.04 mg)
and levonorgestrel (0.05 mg to 0.20 mg), desogestrel (0.15 mg) or gestodene
(0.05 mg to 0.10 mg) was conducted in 18 women with psoriasis over 3
consecutive menstrual cycles. Mean serum levels of LH, FSH and progesterone
were not significantly affected. Mean AUC(0-24h) was similar for
ethinylestradiol and 3-keto desogestrel; however, mean levonorgestrel
AUC(0-24h) significantly decreased by about 15%. There was large inter-patient
variability (%CV in the range of 60% to 70%) in the data, especially for
ethinylestradiol.
Sevelamer
Concomitant administration of sevelamer and MMF in adult and pediatric
patients decreased the mean MPA Cmax and AUC(0-12h) by 36% and 26%
respectively.
Antimicrobials
Antimicrobials eliminating beta-glucuronidase-producing bacteria in the
intestine (e.g. aminoglycoside, cephalosporin, fluoroquinolone, and penicillin
classes of antimicrobials) may interfere with the MPAG/MPA enterohepatic
recirculation thus leading to reduced systemic MPA exposure. Information
concerning antibiotics is as follows:
- Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole: Following single-dose administration of MMF (1.5 g) to 12 healthy male volunteers on day 8 of a 10-day course of trimethoprim 160 mg/sulfamethoxazole 800 mg administered twice daily, no effect on the bioavailability of MPA was observed. The mean (±SD) AUC and Cmax of MPA after concomitant administration were 75.2 (±19.8) mcg•h/mL and 34.0 (±6.6) mcg/mL, respectively, compared to 79.2 (±27.9) mcg•h/mL and 34.2 (±10.7) mcg/mL, respectively, after administration of MMF alone.
- Norfloxacin and Metronidazole: Following single-dose administration of MMF (1 g) to 11 healthy volunteers on day 4 of a 5-day course of a combination of norfloxacin and metronidazole, the mean MPA AUC (0-48h) was significantly reduced by 33% compared to the administration of MMF alone (p less than 0.05). The mean (±SD) MPA AUC(0-48h) after coadministration of MMF with norfloxacin or metronidazole separately was 48.3 (±24) mcg·h/mL and 42.7 (±23) mcg·h/mL, respectively, compared with 56.2 (±24) mcg·h/mL after administration of MMF alone.
- Ciprofloxacin and Amoxicillin Plus Clavulanic Acid: A total of 64 mycophenolate mofetil-treated kidney transplant recipients received either oral ciprofloxacin 500 mg twice daily or amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid 375 mg three times daily for 7 or at least 14 days, respectively. Approximately 50% reductions in median trough MPA concentrations (pre-dose) from baseline (mycophenolate mofetil alone) were observed in 3 days following commencement of oral ciprofloxacin or amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid. These reductions in trough MPA concentrations tended to diminish within 14 days of antimicrobial therapy and ceased within 3 days of discontinuation of antibiotics.
- Rifampin: In a single heart-lung transplant patient, after correction for dose, a 67% decrease in MPA exposure (AUC (0-12h)) has been observed with concomitant administration of MMF and rifampin.
REFERENCES SECTION
15 REFERENCES
1. “OSHA Hazardous Drugs.” OSHA. http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/hazardousdrugs/index.html
SPL MEDGUIDE SECTION
MEDICATION GUIDE
Mycophenolate Mofetil For Oral Suspension USP 200 mg/ml
** (mye" koe fen' oh late moe' fe til)** Read the Medication Guide that comes
with mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension before you start taking it and
each time you refill your prescription. There may be new information. This
Medication Guide does not take the place of talking with your doctor about
your medical condition or treatment.
What is the most important information I should know about mycophenolate
mofetil?
** Mycophenolate mofetil can cause serious side effects, including:**
** Increased risk of loss of a pregnancy (miscarriage) and higher risk of
birth defects.** Females who take mycophenolate mofetil during pregnancy have
a higher risk of miscarriage during the first 3 months (first trimester), and
a higher risk that their baby will be born with birth defects.
*If you are a female who can become pregnant, your doctor must talk with you about acceptable birth control methods (contraceptive counseling) to use while taking mycophenolate mofetil. You should have 1 pregnancy test immediately before starting mycophenolate mofetil and another pregnancy test 8 to 10 days later. Pregnancy tests should be repeated during routine follow-up visits with your doctor. Talk to your doctor about the results of all of your pregnancy tests. You must use acceptable birth control during your entire mycophenolate mofetil treatment and for 6 weeks after stopping mycophenolate mofetil, unless at any time you choose to avoid sexual intercourse (abstinence) with a man completely. Mycophenolate mofetil decreases blood levels of the hormones in birth control pills that you take by mouth. Birth control pills may not work as well while you take mycophenolate mofetil, and you could become pregnant. If you take birth control pills while using mycophenolate mofetil you must also use another form of birth control. Talk to your doctor about other birth control methods that you can use while taking mycophenolate mofetil. *If you are a sexually active male whose female partner can become pregnant while you are taking mycophenolate mofetil, use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 90 days after stopping mycophenolate mofetil. *If you plan to become pregnant, talk with your doctor. Your doctor will decide if other medicines to prevent rejection may be right for you.
- If you become pregnant while taking mycophenolate mofetil, do not stop taking mycophenolate mofetil. Call your doctor right away. You and your doctor may decide that other medicines to prevent rejection may be right for you. You and your doctor should report your pregnancy to the Mycophenolate Pregnancy Registry either:
o By phone at 1-800-617-8191 or
o By visiting the REMS website at: www.mycophenolateREMS.com
The purpose of this registry is to gather information about the health of you
and your baby.
Increased risk of getting certain cancers. People who take mycophenolate
mofetil have a higher risk of getting lymphoma, and other cancers, especially
skin cancer. Tell your doctor if you have:
-
unexplained fever, prolonged tiredness, weight loss or lymph node swelling
-
a brown or black skin lesion with uneven borders, or one part of the lesion does not look like the other
-
a change in the size and color of a mole
-
a new skin lesion or bump
-
any other changes to your health
Increased risk of getting serious infections. Mycophenolate mofetil weakens the body’s immune system and affects your ability to fight infections. Serious infections can happen with mycophenolate mofetil and can lead to hospitalizations and death. These serious infections can include:
- Viral infections. Certain viruses can live in your body and cause active infections when your immune system is weak. Viral infections that can happen with mycophenolate mofetil include:
- Shingles, other herpes infections, and cytomegalovirus (CMV). CMV can cause serious tissue and blood infections.
- BK virus. BK virus can affect how your kidney works and cause your transplanted kidney to fail.
- Hepatitis B and C viruses. Hepatitis viruses can affect how your liver works. Talk to your doctor about how hepatitis viruses may affect you.
- COVID-19
*A brain infection called Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML). In some patients, mycophenolate mofetil may cause an infection of the brain that may cause death. You are at risk for this brain infection because you have a weakened immune system. Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms:
o weakness on one side of the body
o you do not care about things you usually care about (apathy)
o you are confused or have problems thinking
o you cannot control your muscles
Fungal infections. Yeasts and other types of fungal infections can happen with mycophenolate mofetil and can cause serious tissue and blood infections (See* “What are the possible side effects of mycophenolate mofetil?”).**
Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following signs and
symptoms of infection:
• temperature of 100.5°F or greater
• cold symptoms, such as a runny nose or sore throat
• pain during urination
• flu symptoms, such as an upset stomach, stomach pain, vomiting or diarrhea
• earache or headache
• white patches in the mouth or throat
• unexpected bruising or bleeding
• cuts, scrapes or incisions that are red, warm and oozing pus
See**“What are the possible side effects of mycophenolate mofetil?”** for
information about other serious side effects.
What is mycophenolate mofetil?
- Mycophenolate mofetil is a prescription medicine to prevent rejection (antirejection medicine) in people who have received a kidney, heart or liver transplant. Rejection is when the body's immune system perceives the new organ as a “foreign” threat and attacks it.
- Mycophenolate mofetil is used with other medicines containing cyclosporine and corticosteroids.
Who should not take mycophenolate mofetil?
** Do not take mycophenolate mofetil if you are allergic to mycophenolate
mofetil or any of the ingredients in mycophenolate mofetil.** See the end of
this Medication Guide for a complete list of ingredients in mycophenolate
mofetil.
What should I tell my doctor before taking mycophenolate mofetil?
** Tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, including if you:**
- have any digestive problems, such as ulcers.
- have Phenylketonuria (PKU). Mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension contains aspartame (a source of phenylalanine).
- have Lesch-Nyhan syndrome, Kelley-Seegmiller syndrome, or another rare inherited deficiency hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyl-transferase (HGPRT). You should not take mycophenolate mofetil if you have one of these disorders.
- plan to receive any vaccines. People taking mycophenolate mofetil should not receive live vaccines. Some vaccines may not work as well during treatment with mycophenolate mofetil
- are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. See** “What is the most important information I should know about mycophenolate mofetil?”**
- are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if mycophenolate mofetil passes into breast milk. You and your doctor will decide if you will take mycophenolate mofetil or breastfeed.
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including
prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements.
Some medicines may affect the way mycophenolate mofetil works, and
mycophenolate mofetil may affect how some medicines work.
Especially tell your doctor if you take:
- birth control pills (oral contraceptives). See “What is the most important information I should know about mycophenolate mofetil?”
- sevelamer (Renagel®, RenvelaTM). These products should be taken at least 2 hours after taking mycophenolate mofetil.
- acyclovir (Zovirax®), valacyclovir (Valtrex®), ganciclovir (CYTOVENE®-IV, Vitrasert®), valganciclovir (VALCYTE®).
- rifampin (Rifater®, Rifamate®, Rimactane®, Rifadin®).
- antacids that contain magnesium and aluminum (mycophenolate mofetil and the antacid should not be taken at the same time).
- proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (Prevacid®, Protonix®).
- sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (BACTRIMTM, BACTRIM DSTM).
- norfloxacin (Noroxin®) and metronidazole (Flagyl®, Flagyl® ER, Flagyl® IV, Metro IV, Helidac®, PyleraTM).
- ciprofloxacin (Cipro®, Cipro®XR, Ciloxan®, Proquin®XR) and amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid (Augmentin®, Augmentin XRTM).
- azathioprine (Azasan®, Imuran®).
- cholestyramine (Questran Light®, Questran®, Locholest Light, Locholest, Prevalite®).
Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show to your doctor or nurse and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. Do not take any new medicine without talking with your doctor.
** How should I take mycophenolate mofetil?**
- Take mycophenolate mofetil exactly as prescribed.
- Do not stop taking mycophenolate mofetil or change the dose unless your doctor tells you to.
- If you miss a dose of mycophenolate mofetil, or you are not sure when you took your last dose, take your prescribed dose of mycophenolate mofetil as soon as you remember. If your next dose is less than 2 hours away, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at your normal scheduled time. Do not take 2 doses at the same time. Call your doctor if you are not sure what to do.
- Take mycophenolate mofetil capsules, tablets and oral suspension on an empty stomach, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.Do not crush mycophenolate mofetil tablets. *** Do not** open or crush mycophenolate mofetil capsules
- If you are not able to swallow mycophenolate mofetil tablets or capsules, your doctor may prescribe mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension. This is a liquid form of mycophenolate mofetil. Your pharmacist will mix the medicine before you pick it up from a pharmacy. Do not mix mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension with any other medicine. Mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension should not be mixed with any type of liquids before taking the dose. See the Instructions for Use at the end of this Medication Guide for detailed instructions about how to take mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension the right way. *** Do not* breathe in (inhale) or let mycophenolate mofetil powder or oral suspension come in contact with your skin or mucous membranes.
o If you accidentally get the powder or oral suspension on the skin, wash the area well with soap and water.
o If you accidentally get the powder or oral suspension in your eyes or other mucous membranes, flush with plain water.
- If you take too much mycophenolate mofetil, call your doctor or the poison control center right away.
What should I avoid while taking mycophenolate mofetil?
- Avoid becoming pregnant. See** “What is the most important information I should know about mycophenolate mofetil?”**
- Limit the amount of time you spend in sunlight. Avoid using tanning beds or sunlamps. People who take mycophenolate mofetil have a higher risk of getting skin cancer (See** “What is the most important information I should know about mycophenolate mofetil?”).** Wear protective clothing when you are in the sun and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high protection factor. This is especially important if your skin is very fair or if you have a family history of skin cancer.
- You should not donate blood while taking mycophenolate mofetil and for at least 6 weeks after stopping mycophenolate mofetil.
- You should not donate sperm while taking mycophenolate mofetil and for 90 days after stopping mycophenolate mofetil.
- Mycophenolate mofetil may influence your ability to drive and use machines (See**“What are the possible side effects of mycophenolate mofetil?”.** If you experience drowsiness, confusion, dizziness, tremor, or low blood pressure during treatment with mycophenolate mofetil, you should be cautious about driving or using heavy machines.
What are the possible side effects of mycophenolate mofetil?
** Mycophenolate mofetil can cause serious side effects, including:**
- See** “What is the most important information I should know about mycophenolate mofetil?”** *Low blood cell counts. People taking high doses of mycophenolate mofetil each day may have a decrease in blood counts, including:
owhite blood cells, especially neutrophils. Neutrophils fight against bacterial infections. You have a higher chance of getting an infection when your white blood cell count is low. This is most common from 1 month to 6 months after your transplant.
o** red blood cells.** Red blood cells carry oxygen to your body tissues. You have a higher chance of getting severe anemia when your red blood cell count is low.
oplatelets. Platelets help with blood clotting.
Your doctor will do blood tests before you start taking mycophenolate mofetil and during treatment with mycophenolate mofetil to check your blood cell counts.Tell your doctor right away if you have any signs of infection (See “What is the most important information I should know about mycophenolate mofetil?”), including any unexpected bruising or bleeding. Also, tell your doctor if you have unusual tiredness, lack of energy, dizziness or fainting.
*Stomach problems. Stomach problems including intestinal bleeding, a tear in your intestinal wall (perforation) or stomach ulcers can happen in people who take mycophenolate mofetil. Bleeding can be severe and you may have to be hospitalized for treatment. Call your doctor right away if you have sudden or severe stomach-area pain or stomach-area pain that does not go away, or if you have diarrhea. ***Inflammatory reactions.**Some people taking mycophenolate mofetil may have an inflammatory reaction with fever, joint stiffness, joint pain, and muscle pain. Some of these reactions may require hospitalization. This reaction could happen within weeks to months after your treatment with mycophenolate mofetil starts or if your dose is increased. Call your doctor right away if you experience these symptoms.
The most common side effects of mycophenolate mofetil include:
- diarrhea
- blood problems including low white and red blood cell counts
- infections
- blood pressure problems
- fast heart beat
- swelling of the lower legs, ankles and feet
- changes in laboratory blood levels, including high levels of blood sugar (hyperglycemia)
- stomach problems including diarrhea, constipation, nausea and vomiting
- rash
- nervous system problems such as headache, dizziness and tremor
Side effects that can happen more often in children than in adults taking mycophenolate mofetil include:
- stomach area pain
- fever
- infection
- pain
- blood infection (sepsis)
- diarrhea
- vomiting
- sore throat
- colds (respiratory tract infections)
- high blood pressure
- low white blood cell count
- low red blood cell count
These are not all of the possible side effects of mycophenolate mofetil. Tell your doctor about any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.** Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.**
** How should I store mycophenolate mofetil?**
- Store mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension at room temperature between 59oF to 86oF (15oC to 30oC), for up to 60 days. You can also store mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension in the refrigerator between 36oF to 46oF (2oC to 8oC). Do not freeze.
Keep mycophenolate mofetil and all medicines out of the reach of children.
General information about the safe and effective use of mycophenolate
mofetil.
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a
medication guide. Do not use mycophenolate mofetil for a condition for which
it was not prescribed. Do not give mycophenolate mofetil to other people, even
if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them.
This medication guide summarizes the most important information about
mycophenolate mofetil. If you would like more information, talk with your
doctor. You can ask your doctor or pharmacist about mycophenolate mofetil that
is written for health professionals.
What are the ingredients in mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension?
Active ingredient: Mycophenolate mofetil USP
Inactive ingredients:
Mycophenolate Mofetil for Oral Solution 200 mg/ml: Sorbitol, sodium citrate
dehydrate, citric acid anhydrous, methyl paraben, xanthan gum, aspartame,
soybean lecithin and N & A gum fruit flavor.
Any other trademarks in this document are the property of their respective owners.
For more information call at Ascend Laboratories, LLC at 1-877-272-7901
This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
** Manufactured by:**
Alkem Laboratories Ltd.,
INDIA.
Distributed by:
Ascend Laboratories, LLC
Parsippany, NJ 07054
Revised: 10/2023
SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
Mycophenolate Mofetil For Oral Suspension
Read this Instructions for Use before you take or give mycophenolate mofetil for the first time and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition or treatment.
Important:
- Always use the oral dispenser provided with mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension to make sure you measure the right amount of medicine. If your mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension does not come with the oral dispenser, contact your pharmacist.
- Call your pharmacist if your oral dispenser is lost or damaged.
- Your pharmacist will write the expiration date on your mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension bottle label.Do not use mycophenolate mofetil after the expiration date.
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or are unsure about how to take or give the right amount of medicine.
- The mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension should not be mixed with any type of liquids before taking or giving the dose. *Do not let the mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension come in contact with the skin. If this happens, wash the skin well with soap and water. If the mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension gets in the eyes, rinse the eyes with plain water.
- If you spill any mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension, wipe it up using paper towels wet with water. Put the child-resistant bottle cap back on the bottle and wipe the outside of the bottle with wet paper towels.
Supplies needed to take or give a dose of mycophenolate mofetil for oral
suspension:
To take or give a dose of mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension, you will
need the bottle of medicine and the oral dispenser provided with the medicine
(See Figure 1). Your pharmacist will insert the bottle adapter in the
mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension bottle.Do not remove the bottle
adapter from the bottle.

** Figure 1**
Taking or giving a dose of mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension:
Step 1: With the child-resistant cap on the bottle, shake the bottle well
for about 5 seconds before each use.
Step 2: Open the bottle by firmly pressing down on the child-resistant
bottle cap and turning it to the left (counterclockwise).Do not throw
away the child-resistant bottle cap.
Step 3: Place the bottle on a flat surface. Before inserting the tip of
the oral dispenser into the bottle adapter, push the plunger completely down
toward the tip of the oral dispenser. Use 1 hand to hold the bottle upright.
Insert the oral dispenser tip firmly into the opening of the bottle adapter.
Step 4: Carefully turn the bottle upside down with the oral dispenser tip
in place. Slowly pull the plunger down to withdraw your prescribed dose.Do
not pull the plunger out of the oral dispenser (SeeFigure 2).

Figure 2
Step 5: Leave the oral dispenser tip in the bottle and turn the bottle to
an upright position. Slowly remove the oral dispenser tip from the bottle. If
there are air bubbles in the oral dispenser or if you have withdrawn the wrong
dose, insert the oral dispenser tip back into the bottle adapter while the
bottle is in an upright position. Push the plunger gently all the way up so
the mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension flows back into the bottle.
RepeatStep 4.
Step 6: Place the tip of the oral dispenser in the mouth directed towards
the cheek and slowly push the plunger down until the oral dispenser is empty.
Step 7: Put the child-resistant bottle cap back on the bottle and turn the
cap to the right (clockwise) to close the bottle. Keep the bottle tightly
closed after each use.
Step 8: Rinse the oral dispenser under running tap water after each use:
- Remove the plunger from the oral dispenser.
- Rinse the oral dispenser and plunger with water only and let them air dry on a paper towel.
- When the oral dispenser and plunger are dry, put the plunger back in the oral dispenser for the next use.** Do not** throw away the oral dispenser. Store the oral dispenser in a clean, dry place. *Do not boil the oral dispenser.Do not use solvent-containing wipes to clean the oral dispenser. Do not use cloths or wipes to dry the oral dispenser.
How should I store mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension?
- Store the mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension at room temperature between 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C), for up to 60 days. You can also store the mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension in the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). *Do not freeze.
Keep mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension and all medicines out of the reach of children.
This Instructions for Use has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Revised: October, 2023****
** PT 2156-12**
USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS SECTION
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
8.1 Pregnancy
Pregnancy Exposure Registry
There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to mycophenolate during pregnancy and those becoming pregnant within 6 weeks of discontinuing mycophenolate mofetil treatment. To report a pregnancy or obtain information about the registry, visit www.mycophenolateREMS.com or call 1-800-617-8191.
Risk Summary
Use of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of first trimester pregnancy loss and an increased risk of multiple congenital malformations in multiple organ systems [see Human Data]. Oral administration of mycophenolate to rats and rabbits during the period of organogenesis produced congenital malformations and pregnancy loss at doses less than the recommended clinical dose (0.01 to 0.05 times the recommended clinical doses in kidney and heart transplant patients) [see Animal Data].
Consider alternative immunosuppressants with less potential for embryofetal toxicity. Risks and benefits of mycophenolate mofetil should be discussed with the pregnant woman.
The estimated background risk of pregnancy loss and congenital malformations in organ transplant populations is not clear. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively
Data
Human Data
A spectrum of congenital malformations (including multiple malformations in individual newborns) has been reported in 23 to 27% of live births in MMF exposed pregnancies, based on published data from pregnancy registries. Malformations that have been documented include external ear, eye, and other facial abnormalities including cleft lip and palate, and anomalies of the distal limbs, heart, esophagus, kidney, and nervous system.
Based on published data from pregnancy registries, the risk of first trimester pregnancy loss has been reported at 45 to 49% following MMF exposure.
Animal Data
In animal reproductive toxicology studies, there were increased rates of fetal resorptions and malformations in the absence of maternal toxicity. Oral administration of MMF to pregnant rats from Gestational Day 7 to Day 16 produced increased embryofetal lethality and fetal malformations including anophthalmia, agnathia, and hydrocephaly at doses equivalent to 0.015 and 0.01 times the recommended human doses for renal and cardiac transplant patients, respectively, when corrected for BSA. Oral administration of MMF to pregnant rabbits from Gestational Day 7 to Day 19 produced increased embryofetal lethality and fetal malformations included ectopia cordis, ectopic kidneys, diaphragmatic hernia, and umbilical hernia at dose equivalents as low as 0.05 and 0.03 times the recommended human doses for renal and cardiac transplant patients, respectively, when corrected for BSA.
8.2 Lactation
Risk Summary
There are no data on the presence of mycophenolate in human milk, or the
effects on milk production. There are limited data in the National
Transplantation Pregnancy Registry on the effects of mycophenolate on a
breastfed child [see Data]. Studies in rats treated with MMF have shown
mycophenolic acid (MPA) to be present in milk. Because available data are
limited, it is not possible to exclude potential risks to a breastfeeding
infant.
The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for mycophenolate mofetil and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from mycophenolate mofetil or from the underlying maternal condition.
Data
Limited information is available from the National Transplantation Pregnancy
Registry. Of seven infants reported by the National Transplantation Pregnancy
Registry to have been breastfed while the mother was taking mycophenolate, all
were born at 34-40 weeks gestation, and breastfed for up to 14 months. No
adverse events were reported.
8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential
Females of reproductive potential must be made aware of the increased risk of first trimester pregnancy loss and congenital malformations and must be counseled regarding pregnancy prevention and planning.
Pregnancy Planning
For patients who are considering pregnancy, consider alternative
immunosuppressants with less potential for embryofetal toxicity whenever
possible. Risks and benefits of mycophenolate mofetil should be discussed with
the patient.
Pregnancy Testing
To prevent unplanned exposure during pregnancy, all females of reproductive
potential should have a serum or urine pregnancy test with a sensitivity of at
least 25 mIU/mL immediately before starting mycophenolate mofetil. Another
pregnancy test with the same sensitivity should be done 8 to 10 days later.
Repeat pregnancy tests should be performed during routine follow-up visits.
Results of all pregnancy tests should be discussed with the patient. In the
event of a positive pregnancy test, consider alternative immunosuppressants
with less potential for embryofetal toxicity whenever possible.
Contraception
Female Patients
Females of reproductive potential taking mycophenolate mofetil must receive
contraceptive counseling and use acceptable contraception (seeTable 9 for
acceptable contraception methods).
Patients must use acceptable birth control during the entire mycophenolate mofetil therapy, and for 6 weeks after stopping mycophenolate mofetil, unless the patient chooses abstinence.
Patients should be aware that mycophenolate mofetil reduces blood levels of the hormones from the oral contraceptive pill and could theoretically reduce its effectiveness [see Drug Interactions (7.2)].
Table 9. Acceptable Contraception Methods for Females of Reproductive Potential****Pick from the following birth control options:
Option 1****Methods to |
|
OR
Option 2 |
Hormone Methods choose 1 |
Barrier Methods choose 1 | |
Choose One Hormone Method AND****One Barrier Method |
Estrogen and Progesterone
Progesterone-only
|
AND |
|
OR
Option 3 |
Barrier Methodschoose 1 |
Barrier Methodschoose 1 | |
Choose One Barrier Method from each column(must choose two methods) |
|
AND |
|
Male Patients
Genotoxic effects have been observed in animal studies at exposures exceeding
the human therapeutic exposures by approximately 1.25 times. Thus, the risk of
genotoxic effects on sperm cells cannot be excluded. Based on this potential
risk, sexually active male patients and/or their female partners are
recommended to use effective contraception during treatment of the male
patient and for at least 90 days after cessation of treatment. Also, based on
the potential risk of genotoxic effects, male patients should not donate sperm
during treatment with mycophenolate mofetil and for at least 90 days after
cessation of treatment [see Use in Special Populations (8.1), Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1), Patient Counseling Information (17.9)].
8.4 Pediatric Use
Safety and effectiveness have been established in pediatric patients 3 months and older for the prophylaxis of organ rejection of allogenic kidney, heart or liver transplants.
Kidney Transplant
Use of mycophenolate mofetil in this population is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies of mycophenolate mofetil in adults with additional data from one open-label, pharmacokinetic and safety study of mycophenolate mofetil in pediatric patients after receiving allogeneic kidney transplant (100 patients, 3 months to 18 years of age) [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), Adverse Reactions (6.1), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3), Clinical Studies (14.1)]
Heart Transplant and Liver Transplant
Use of mycophenolate mofetil in pediatric heart transplant and liver
transplant patients is supported by adequate and well-controlled studies and
pharmacokinetic data in adult heart transplant and liver transplant patients.
Additional supportive data include pharmacokinetic data
in pediatric kidney transplant and pediatric liver transplant patients (8
liver transplant patients, 9 months to 5 years of age, in an open-label,
pharmacokinetic and safety study) and published evidence of clinical efficacy
and safety in pediatric heart transplant and pediatric liver transplant
patients [see Dosage and Administration (2.3, 2.4), Adverse Reactions (6.1), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3), Clinical Studies (14.1)].
8.5 Geriatric Use
Clinical studies of mycophenolate mofetil did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between geriatric and younger patients. In general, dose selection for a geriatric patient should take into consideration the presence of decreased hepatic, renal or cardiac function and of concomitant drug therapies. [see Adverse Reactions (6.1), Drug Interactions (7)].
8.6 Patients with Renal Impairment
Patients with Kidney Transplant
No dosage adjustments are needed in kidney transplant patients experiencing delayed graft function postoperatively but patients should be carefully monitored [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. In kidney transplant patients with severe chronic impairment of the graft (GFR less than 25 mL/min/1.73 m2), no dose adjustments are necessary; however, doses greater than 1 g administered twice a day should be avoided.
Patients with Heart and Liver Transplant
No data are available for heart or liver transplant patients with severe chronic renal impairment. Mycophenolate mofetil may be used for heart or liver transplant patients with severe chronic renal impairment if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks.
8.7 Patients with Hepatic Impairment
Patients with Kidney Transplant
No dosage adjustments are recommended for kidney transplant patients with severe hepatic parenchymal disease. However, it is not known whether dosage adjustments are needed for hepatic disease with other etiologies [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Patients with Heart Transplant
No data are available for heart transplant patients with severe hepatic parenchymal disease.
- Male Patients: Sexually active male patients and/or their female partners are recommended to use effective contraception during treatment of the male patient and for at least 90 days after cessation of treatment (8.3)
NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY SECTION
13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY
13.1 Carcinogenesis & Mutagenesis & Impairment Of Fertility
In a 104-week oral carcinogenicity study in mice, MMF in daily doses up to 180 mg/kg was not tumorigenic. The highest dose tested was 0.2 times the recommended clinical dose (2 g/day) in renal transplant patients and 0.15 times the recommended clinical dose (3 g/day) in cardiac transplant patients when corrected for differences in body surface area (BSA). In a 104-week oral carcinogenicity study in rats, MMF in daily doses up to 15 mg/kg was not tumorigenic. The highest dose was 0.035 times the recommended clinical dose in kidney transplant patients and 0.025 times the recommended clinical dose in heart transplant patients when corrected for BSA. While these animal doses were lower than those given to patients, they were maximal in those species and were considered adequate to evaluate the potential for human risk [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
The genotoxic potential of MMF was determined in five assays. MMF was genotoxic in the mouse lymphoma/thymidine kinase assay and the in vivo mouse micronucleus assay. MMF was not genotoxic in the bacterial mutation assay, the yeast mitotic gene conversion assay or the Chinese hamster ovary cell chromosomal aberration assay.
MMF had no effect on fertility of male rats at oral doses up to 20 mg/kg/day. This dose represents 0.05 times the recommended clinical dose in renal transplant patients and 0.03 times the recommended clinical dose in cardiac transplant patients when corrected for BSA. In a female fertility and reproduction study conducted in rats, oral doses of 4.5 mg/kg/day caused malformations (principally of the head and eyes) in the first generation offspring in the absence of maternal toxicity. This dose was 0.01 times the recommended clinical dose in renal transplant patients and 0.005 times the recommended clinical dose in cardiac transplant patients when corrected for BSA. No effects on fertility or reproductive parameters were evident in the dams or in the subsequent generation.
CLINICAL STUDIES SECTION
14 CLINICAL STUDIES
14.1 Kidney Transplantation
Adults
The three de novo kidney transplantation studies compared two dose levels of
oral mycophenolate mofetil (1 g twice daily and 1.5 g twice daily) with
azathioprine (2 studies) or placebo (1 study) to prevent acute rejection
episodes. One of the two studies with azathioprine (AZA) control arm also
included anti-thymocyte globulin (ATGAM®) induction therapy. The geographic
location of the investigational sites of these studies are included inTable
13.
In all three de novo kidney transplantation studies, the primary efficacy
endpoint was the proportion of patients in each treatment group who
experienced treatment failure within the first 6 months after transplantation.
Treatment failure was defined as biopsy-proven acute rejection on treatment or
the occurrence of death, graft loss or early termination from the study for
any reason without prior biopsy-proven rejection.
Mycophenolate mofetil, in combination with corticosteroids and cyclosporine,
reduced (statistically significant at 0.05 level) the incidence of treatment
failure within the first 6 months following transplantation**(Table 13).**
Patients who prematurely discontinued treatment were followed for the
occurrence of death or graft loss, and the cumulative incidence of graft loss
and patient death combined are summarized in** Table 14**. Patients who
prematurely discontinued treatment were not followed for the occurrence of
acute rejection after termination.
Table 13. Treatment Failure in De Novo Kidney Transplantation Studies
**USA Study |
Mycophenolate Mofetil** 2g/day** |
Mycophenolate Mofetil** 3g/day** |
AZA****1 to 2 mg/kg/day (n=166 patients) |
All 3 groups received anti-thymocyte globulin induction, cyclosporine and corticosteroids | |||
All treatment failures |
31.1% |
31.3% |
47.6% |
Early termination without prior acute rejection |
9.6% |
12.7% |
6.0% |
Biopsy-proven rejection episode on treatment |
19.8% |
17.5% |
38.0% |
Europe/Canada/** Australia Study** |
Mycophenolate Mofetil** 2 g/day (n=173 patients)** |
Mycophenolate Mofetil****3 g/day (n=164 patients) |
AZA****100 to 150 mg/day |
No induction treatment administered; all 3 groups received cyclosporine and corticosteroids. | |||
All treatment failures |
38.2% |
34.8% |
50.0% |
Early termination without prior acute rejection |
13.9% |
15.2% |
10.2% |
Biopsy-proven rejection episode on treatment |
19.7% |
15.9% |
35.5% |
Europe Study**(N=491 patients)** |
Mycophenolate Mofetil****2g/day |
Mycophenolate Mofetil****3g/day |
Placebo**(n=166 patients)** |
No induction treatment administered; all 3 groups received cyclosporine and corticosteroids. | |||
All treatment failures |
30.3% |
38.8% |
56.0% |
Early termination without prior acute rejection |
11.5% |
22.5% |
7.2% |
Biopsy-proven rejection episode on treatment |
17.0% |
13.8% |
46.4% |
*Does not include death and graft loss as reason for early termination
No advantage of mycophenolate mofetil at 12 months with respect to graft loss or patient death (combined) was established (Table 14). Numerically, patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil 2 g/day and 3 g/day experienced a better outcome than controls in all three studies; patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil 2 g/day experienced a better outcome than mycophenolate mofetil 3 g/day in two of the three studies. Patients in all treatment groups who terminated treatment early were found to have a poor outcome with respect to graft loss or patient death at 1 year.
** Table 14. De Novo Kidney Transplantation Studies Cumulative Incidence of Combined Graft Loss or Patient Death at 12 Months**
Study |
Mycophenolate Mofetil****2 g/day |
Mycophenolate Mofetil****3 g/day |
Control**(AZA or Placebo)** |
USA |
8.5% |
11.5% |
12.2% |
Europe/Canada/Australia |
11.7% |
11.0% |
13.6% |
Europe |
8.5% |
10.0% |
11.5% |
Pediatrics-De Novo Kidney transplantation PK Study with Long Term Follow-Up
One open-label, safety and pharmacokinetic study of mycophenolate mofetil for
oral suspension 600 mg/m2 twice daily (up to 1 g twice daily) in combination
with cyclosporine and corticosteroids was performed at centers in the United
States (9), Europe (5) and Australia (1) in 100 pediatric patients (3 months
to 18 years of age) for the prevention of renal allograft rejection.
Mycophenolate mofetil was well tolerated in pediatric patients [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)], and the pharmacokinetics profile was similar to that seen in
adult patients dosed with 1 g twice daily mycophenolate mofetil capsules [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. The rate of biopsy-proven rejection was similar
across the age groups (3 months to less than 6 years, 6 years to less than 12
years, 12 years to 18 years). The overall biopsy-proven rejection rate at 6
months was comparable to adults. The combined incidence of graft loss (5%) and
patient death (2%) at 12 months post-transplant was similar to that observed
in adult kidney transplant patients.
14.2 Heart Transplantation
A double-blind, randomized, comparative, parallel-group, multicenter study in primary de novo heart transplant recipients was performed at centers in the United States (20), in Canada (1), in Europe (5) and in Australia (2). The total number of patients enrolled (ITT population) was 650; 72 never received study drug and 578 received study drug (Safety Population). Patients received mycophenolate mofetil 1.5 g twice daily (n=289) or AZA 1.5 to 3 mg/kg/day (n=289), in combination with cyclosporine (Sandimmune® or Neoral®) and corticosteroids as maintenance immunosuppressive therapy. The two primary efficacy endpoints were: (1) the proportion of patients who, after transplantation, had at least one endomyocardial biopsy-proven rejection with hemodynamic compromise, or were re-transplanted or died, within the first 6 months, and (2) the proportion of patients who died or were re-transplanted during the first 12 months following transplantation. Patients who prematurely discontinued treatment were followed for the occurrence of allograft rejection for up to 6 months and for the occurrence of death for 1 year.
The analyses of the endpoints showed:
- Rejection: No difference was established between mycophenolate mofetil and AZA with respect to biopsy-proven rejection with hemodynamic compromise.
- Survival: Mycophenolate mofetil was shown to be at least as effective as AZA in preventing death or re-transplantation at 1 year (seeTable 15).
Table 15. De Novo Heart Transplantation Study Rejection at 6 Months/Death or Re-transplantation at 1 Year
All Patients (ITT) |
Treated Patients | |||
AZA N = 323 |
Mycophenolate Mofetil |
AZA N = 289 |
Mycophenolate Mofetil | |
Biopsy-proven rejection with hemodynamic compromise at 6 monthsa |
121 (38%) |
120 (37%) |
100 (35%) |
92 (32%) |
Death or re-transplantation at 1 year |
49 (15.2%) |
42 (12.8%) |
33 (11.4%) |
18 (6.2%) |
aHemodynamic compromise occurred if any of the following criteria were met: pulmonary capillary wedge pressure ≥20 mm or a 25% increase; cardiac index less than 2.0 L/min/m2 or a 25% decrease; ejection fraction ≤30%; pulmonary artery oxygen saturation ≤60% or a 25% decrease; presence of new S3 gallop; fractional shortening was ≤20% or a 25% decrease; inotropic support required to manage the clinical condition.
14.3 Liver Transplantation
A double-blind, randomized, comparative, parallel-group, multicenter study in
primary hepatic transplant recipients was performed at centers in the United
States (16), in Canada (2), in Europe (4) and in Australia (1). The total
number of patients enrolled was 565. Per protocol, patients received
mycophenolate mofetil 1 g twice daily intravenously for up to 14 days followed
by mycophenolate mofetil 1.5 g twice daily orally or AZA 1 to 2 mg/kg/day
intravenously followed by AZA 1 to 2 mg/kg/day orally, in combination with
cyclosporine (Neoral®) and corticosteroids as maintenance immunosuppressive
therapy. The actual median oral dose of AZA on study was 1.5 mg/kg/day (range
of 0.3 to 3.8 mg/kg/day) initially and 1.26 mg/kg/day (range of 0.3 to 3.8
mg/kg/day) at 12 months. The two primary endpoints were:
(1) the proportion of patients who experienced, in the first 6 months post-
transplantation, one or more episodes of biopsy-proven and treated rejection
or death or re-transplantation, and (2) the proportion of patients who
experienced graft loss (death or re-transplantation) during the first 12
months post-transplantation. Patients who prematurely discontinued treatment
were followed for the occurrence of allograft rejection and for the occurrence
of graft loss (death or re-transplantation) for 1 year.
In combination with corticosteroids and cyclosporine, mycophenolate mofetil
demonstrated a lower rate of acute rejection at 6 months and a similar rate of
death or re-transplantation at 1 year compared to AZA (Table 16)
Table 16. De Novo Liver Transplantation Study Rejection at 6 Months/Death or
Retransplantation at 1 Year
AZA N = 287 |
** Mycophenolate Mofetil** | |
Biopsy-proven, treated rejection at 6 months (includes |
137 (47.7%) |
107 (38.5%) |
Death or re-transplantation at 1 year |
42 (14.6%) |
41 (14.7%) |
HOW SUPPLIED SECTION
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING
16.1 Handling and Disposal
Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) has demonstrated teratogenic effects in humans [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. Mycophenolate mofetil tablets should not be crushed and mycophenolate mofetil capsules should not be opened or crushed. Wearing disposable gloves is recommended during reconstitution and when wiping the outer surface of the bottle/cap and the table after reconstitution. Avoid inhalation or direct contact with skin or mucous membranes of the powder contained in mycophenolate mofetil capsules, mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension (before or after constitution), or mycophenolate mofetil intravenous (during or after preparation) [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)]. Follow applicable special handling and disposal procedures1.
16.4 Mycophenolate Mofetil for Oral Suspension, USP
Supplied as white to off white powder blend for constitution to white to off
white mixed fruit flavor suspension. Supplied in the following presentations: |
Storage:
|
INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS SECTION
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide and Instructions for Use)
17.1 Embryofetal Toxicity
Pregnancy loss and malformations.
- Inform females of reproductive potential and pregnant women that use of mycophenolate mofetil during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of first trimester pregnancy loss and an increased risk of congenital malformations. Advise that they must use an acceptable form of contraception [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1), Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3)].
- Encourage pregnant women to enroll in the Pregnancy Exposure Registry. This registry monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to mycophenolate [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].
Contraception
- Discuss pregnancy testing, pregnancy prevention and planning with females of reproductive potential [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].
- Females of reproductive potential must use an acceptable form of birth control during the entire mycophenolate mofetil therapy and for 6 weeks after stopping mycophenolate mofetil, unless the patient chooses abstinence. Mycophenolate mofetil may reduce effectiveness of oral contraceptives. Use of additional barrier contraceptive methods is recommended [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].
- For patients who are considering pregnancy, discuss appropriate alternative immunosuppressants with less potential for embryofetal toxicity. Risks and benefits of mycophenolate mofetil should be discussed with the patient.
- Advise sexually active male patients and/or their partners to use effective contraception during the treatment of the male patient and for at least 90 days after cessation of treatment. This recommendation is based on findings of animal studies [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3), Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)].
17.2 Development of Lymphoma and Other Malignancies
- Inform patients that they are at increased risk of developing lymphomas and other malignancies, particularly of the skin, due to immunosuppression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
- Advise patients to limit exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) light by wearing protective clothing and use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with high protection factor.
17.3 Increased Risk of Serious Infections
Inform patients that they are at increased risk of developing a variety of infections due to immunosuppression. Instruct them to contact their physician if they develop any of the signs and symptoms of infection explained in the Medication Guide [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
17.4 Blood Dyscrasias
Inform patients that they are at increased risk for developing blood adverse effects such as anemia or low white blood cells. Advise patients to immediately contact their healthcare provider if they experience any evidence of infection, unexpected bruising, or bleeding, or any other manifestation of bone marrow suppression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
17.5 Gastrointestinal Tract Complications
Inform patients that mycophenolate mofetil can cause gastrointestinal tract complications including bleeding, intestinal perforations, and gastric or duodenal ulcers. Advise the patient to contact their healthcare provider if they have symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding, or sudden onset or persistent abdominal pain [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].
17.6 Acute Inflammatory Syndrome
Inform patients that acute inflammatory reactions have been reported in some patients who received mycophenolate mofetil. Some reactions were severe, requiring hospitalization. Advise patients to contact their physician if they develop fever, joint stiffness, joint pain or muscle pains [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].
17.7 Immunizations
Inform patients that mycophenolate mofetil can interfere with the usual response to immunizations. Before seeking vaccines on their own, advise patients to discuss first with their physician. [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].
17.8 Administration Instructions
- Advise patients not to crush mycophenolate mofetil tablets and not to open mycophenolate mofetil capsules.
- Advise patients to avoid inhalation or contact of the skin or mucous membranes with the powder contained in mycophenolate mofetil capsules and with the oral suspension. If such contact occurs, they must wash the area of contact thoroughly with soap and water. In case of ocular contact, rinse eyes with plain water.
- Advise patients to take a missed dose as soon as they remember, except if it is closer than 2 hours to the next scheduled dose; in this case they should continue to take mycophenolate mofetil at the usual times.
17.9 Blood Donation
Advise patients not to donate blood during therapy and for at least 6 weeks following discontinuation of mycophenolate mofetil [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11)].
17.10 Semen Donation
Advise males of childbearing potential not to donate semen during therapy and for 90 days following discontinuation of mycophenolate mofetil [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)].
17.11 Potential to Impair Driving and Use of Machinery
Advise patients that mycophenolate mofetil can affect the ability to drive or operate machines. Patients should avoid driving or operating machines if they experience somnolence, confusion, dizziness, tremor or hypotension during treatment with mycophenolate mofetil [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14)].
Manufactured by:
Alkem Laboratories Ltd.,
INDIA.
Distributed by:
Ascend Laboratories, LLC
Parsippany, NJ 07054
Revised: October, 2023