Mycophenolate mofetil (CellCept)

General information

Class/mechanism: Immunosuppressive medication, inhibits inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH). Mycophenolate mofetil is converted in vivo to the active agent mycophenolic acid (MPA), which is a reversible, selective, and non-competitive inhibitor of inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH). MPA results in the inhibition of the de novo synthesis of guanosine, which T and B-cells are dependent upon for proliferation (as opposed to other cell types, which can use salvage pathways). MPA has a cytostatic effect on lymphocytes, suppresses antibody formation by B-cells, and inhibits T and B-cell proliferative response to mitogenic and allospecific stimuli. MPA also inhibits glycosylation of glycoproteins that play a role in intercellular adhesion to endothelial cells, which may suppress localization of leukocytes to areas of inflammation or graft rejection.
Route: PO, IV
Extravasation: no information

For conciseness and simplicity, HemOnc.org currently will focus on treatment regimens and not list information such as: renal/hepatic dose adjustments, metabolism (including CYP450), excretion, monitoring parameters (although this will be considered for checklists), or manufacturer. Instead, for the most current information, please refer to your preferred pharmacopeias such as Micromedex, Lexicomp, UpToDate (courtesy of Lexicomp), or the prescribing information.

Disease for which it is used

• Autoimmune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)

Patient drug information

• Mycophenolate mofetil (CellCept) package insert
• Mycophenolate mofetil (CellCept) patient drug information (UpToDate)

History of changes in FDA indication

• 5/3/1995: Initial FDA approval