Description
Myfortic is a medication that suppresses the immune system to prevent an organ rejection in adult patients who have received a kidney transplant and in children 5 years or older who are at least 6 months post kidney transplant.
The generic name for Myfortic is Mycophenolic acid.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C17H20O6 |
License |
US DailyMed, EU EMA |
Bioavailability |
72% (sodium), 94% (mofetil) |
Legal status |
Rx-Only |
Chemical Name |
Mycophenolic acid |
Elimination half-life |
17.9±6.5 hours |
Dosage (Strength) |
360mg |
Pregnancy |
Not Recommended |
Brands |
Myfortic |
Protein binding |
82–97% |
PubChem CID |
446541 |
MedlinePlus |
a601081 |
ChEBI |
168396 |
ATC code |
L04AA06 |
DrugBank |
DB01024 |
KEGG |
D05096 |
Routes of administration |
By mouth |
Directions
Myfortic should be taken with cyclosporine and corticosteroids.
Myfortic is available in 180 mg and 360 mg tablets. Once you are prescribed and buy Myfortic, then swallow the tablets whole. You should not crush, chew, or cut the tablets.
Myfortic dosage for adults: 720 mg by mouth two times daily. Take on an empty stomach, one hour before or two hours after eating.
Myfortic dosage for children at least 5 years old and at least 6 months post kidney transplant: 400 mg/m2 by mouth two times daily. Maximum dose = 720 mg by mouth two times daily.
Ingredients
Each Myfortic tablet contains the active ingredient, Mycophenolic acid as Mycophenolate sodium.
Contraindications
Be sure to speak with your doctor about your allergies. Do not take Myfortic (Mycophenolic acid) if you are allergic to Mycophenolate sodium, Mycophenolic acid, Mycophenolate mofetil, or to any of Myfortic's excipients. Myfortic can cause reactions such as a rash, itching, low blood pressure, and chest pain in those who are sensitive to Myfortic.
Cautions
WARNING: EMBRYO-FETAL TOXICITY, MALIGNANCIES, AND SERIOUS INFECTIONS
See full prescribing information for complete boxed warnings
- Use during pregnancy is associated with increased risks of pregnancy loss and congenital malformations. Avoid if safer treatment options are available. Females of reproductive potential must be counseled regarding pregnancy prevention and planning.
- Increased risk of development of lymphoma and other malignancies, particularly of the skin, due to immunosuppression.
- Increased susceptibility to bacterial, viral, fungal, and protozoal infections, including opportunistic infections.
- Only physicians experienced in immunosuppressive therapy and management of organ transplant patients should prescribe Myfortic.
- Myfortic can interact with certain medications that may cause serious reactions. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including prescription, over-the-counter, herbal supplements, and vitamins.
- Do not use Myfortic delayed release tablets and mycophenolate mofetil tablets and capsules interchangeably.
- Myfortic can increase your risk of developing lymphomas and malignancies, especially of the skin. Be sure to limit your time in the sun and wear protective clothing and a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high protection factor.
- Tell your doctor if you have tuberculosis, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C, or any other viral infection. Myfortic can increase your risk for new or reactivated infections due to immunosuppression. Be sure to wash your hands often and stay away from people who are sick. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop a fever, muscle aches, appetite changes, vomiting, or rash.
- Myfortic can increase your risk for blood dyscrasias such as pure red cell aplasia. You should be monitored for neutropenia or anemia.
- Tell your doctor if you have gastrointestinal problems. Myfortic can increase your risk for gastrointestinal bleeding, intestinal perforations, duodenal ulcers, and gastric ulcers. Seek medical attention immediately if you notice blood in your stools or vomit.
- Because Myfortic suppresses your immune system, you should not receive live attenuated vaccines. Talk to your doctor about which vaccines you can and cannot receive.
- Tell your doctor if you have Lesch-Nyhan syndrome or Kelley-Seegmiller syndrome. Myfortic can exacerbate the symptoms of these diseases. Use of Myfortic should be avoided.
- You should not donate blood during Myfortic therapy and for at least 6 weeks after your final dose of Myfortic because a woman with reproductive abilities or a woman who is pregnant may receive your blood.
- You should not donate semen during Myfortic therapy or for 90 days after your final dose of Myfortic.
- Sexually active patients should use an effective contraceptive during treatment of the male patient and for at least 90 days after the final dose of Myfortic.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, think you are pregnant, or planning to become pregnant. Myfortic can increase the risk of pregnancy loss or congenital malformations. An effective method of contraception should be used.
- Tell your doctor if you breastfeed or plan to breastfeed. The effects of Myfortic during breastfeeding are not known.
Side Effects
The use of Myfortic can cause side effects. Some side effects may be serious. Tell your doctor right away if you experience serious side effects or side effects that persist or become bothersome. Common Myfortic side effects include:
- Anemia
- Leukopenia
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Indigestion
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Urinary tract infection
- Sleep problems
- Post-procedure pain
References:
- Myfortic Prescribing Information. East Hanover, New Jersey: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation; 2020.
- Mycophenolic acid (Myfortic). GoodRx. Accessed November 23, 2021.
About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)
Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 10695