Main indications in lupus

Mycophenolate Mofetil (MMF) does not have a marketing authorization for lupus, but experts recognize efficacy in severe lupus, especially in cases of severe renal or visceral damage.

Dosage

250 capsules and 500 mg tablets, oral solution (1 g/5 ml powder for oral suspension) (children), injectable solution at 500 mg/20 ml.

From 2 to 3 g / day in 2 or 3 doses in between meals.

This dosage can be adjusted by measuring the drug in the blood (pharmacokinetics).

Key Drug Interactions

(associations to be avoided)

- Bile acid sequestrants

- Aciclovir, ganciclovir

- Antacids containing aluminium hydroxide or magnesium

Main side effects

- Fatigue (asthenia)

- Diarrhoea and abdominal pain

- Lesion of the colon wall (ischemic colitis) very rare

- Abnormalities in the liver test

- Cytopenia: decrease in blood cells in the bloodstream (leukopenia)

- Infections (viral, bacterial...)

- Rare occurrence of skin tumours

Contraindications

- Pregnancy and lactation

- Known hypersensitivity to the drug

- Ongoing infection (momentary stop of treatment)

Precautions for use

- Women of childbearing age should use two effective contraceptive methods simultaneously before starting treatment, during treatment, as well as six weeks after stopping treatment. Sexually active men are recommended to use condoms during treatment and for at least 90 days after stopping treatment. The use of condoms applies to all men, including after a vasectomy because of the risk of passage into the seminal fluid. In addition, it is recommended that the female partners of these patients use a highly effective method of contraception during treatment and during the 90 days following the last intake of MMF by the male partner.

- Gradual increase in doses

- No association with antacids because risk of absorption problems

- Monitor the skin and consult if an abnormal pimple appears that persists for more than 3 weeks

- In the absence of data in case of severe renal failure, close monitoring (usefulness of kinetics) in order to adapt doses if necessary.

Monitoring

- Blood count, liver assessment and renal assessment: 1/week for 1 month, then 1/15 days for 2 months, and then 1/month

- Clinical monitoring

Careful

Never change the dose of your medication on your own. Talk to your doctor.