Mycophenolic Acid

Drug overview for MYCOPHENOLIC ACID (mycophenolate sodium):

Generic name: MYCOPHENOLATE SODIUM (MYE-koe-FEN-oh-late SOE-dee-um)
Drug class: Immunosuppressive Inosine Monophosphate Dehydrogenase Inhib.
Therapeutic class: Immunosuppressive Agents

Mycophenolate mofetil and mycophenolate sodium are immunosuppressive agents. Mycophenolate mofetil is hydrolyzed in vivo to mycophenolic acid, the pharmacologically active metabolite. Mycophenolate sodium delayed-release tablets release the active moiety, mycophenolic acid, in the intestine.

Mycophenolate mofetil (CellCept(R), Myhibbin(R)) is used in conjunction with other immunosuppressants for the prevention of rejection of kidney, heart, or liver allografts in adult and pediatric patients >=3 months of age. Mycophenolate sodium (Myfortic(R)) is used in conjunction with cyclosporine and corticosteroid therapy for the prevention of rejection of kidney allografts in adults and in pediatric patients >=5 years of age who are at least 6 months post kidney transplant.

DRUG IMAGES

MYCOPHENOLIC ACID DR 180 MG TB
MYCOPHENOLIC ACID DR 360 MG TB

The following indications for MYCOPHENOLIC ACID (mycophenolate sodium) have been approved by the FDA:

Indications:
Prevention of kidney transplant rejection

Professional Synonyms:
Kidney transplant rejection prophylaxis
Renal transplant rejection prophylaxis

The following dosing information is available for MYCOPHENOLIC ACID (mycophenolate sodium):

Dosing
Administration
MYCOPHENOLIC ACID
MYCOPHENOLIC ACID

Dosage of mycophenolate mofetil and mycophenolate mofetil hydrochloride are both expressed in terms of mycophenolate mofetil. Dosage of mycophenolate sodium is expressed in terms of mycophenolic acid.

Mycophenolate mofetil tablets, capsules, and oral suspension (CellCept(R)) reportedly are bioequivalent. Mycophenolate sodium delayed-release tablets should not be used interchangeably with mycophenolate mofetil tablets, capsules, or oral suspension without supervision of a clinician, because absorption of the drug from these preparations is not equivalent.

If neutropenia (absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of less than 1300/mm3) develops, mycophenolate therapy should be temporarily discontinued or the dosage reduced; suitable diagnostic tests should be performed, and appropriate patient management should be instituted.

Mycophenolate mofetil is available as oral capsules, film-coated tablets, or powder for oral suspension, and as mycophenolate mofetil hydrochloride lyophilized powder for injection for IV infusion (CellCept(R)). Mycophenolate mofetil is also available as a ready-to-use oral suspension (Myhibbin(R)). Mycophenolate sodium is available as oral delayed-release (enteric-coated) tablets (Myfortic(R)).

Do not use mycophenolate mofetil or mycophenolate sodium without the supervision of a clinician with experience in immunosuppressive therapy. Do not use mycophenolate mofetil oral dosage forms (capsules, tablets, or oral suspension) interchangeably with mycophenolic sodium delayed-release tablets without supervision of a clinician with experience in immunosuppressive therapy. Because of the teratogenic potential of the drug, mycophenolate oral and parenteral preparations should be handled and prepared with care. If a dose of mycophenolate mofetil is missed, the dose should be taken as soon as it is remembered unless it is closer than 2 hours to the next scheduled dose; in this case, continue to take mycophenolate mofetil at the usual times.

Dosing information for MYCOPHENOLIC ACID
DRUG LABEL	DOSING TYPE	DOSING INSTRUCTIONS
MYCOPHENOLIC ACID DR 360 MG TB	Maintenance	Adults take 2 tablets (720 mg) by oral route 2 times per day on an empty stomach

Generic dosing information for MYCOPHENOLIC ACID
DRUG LABEL	DOSING TYPE	DOSING INSTRUCTIONS
MYCOPHENOLIC ACID DR 360 MG TB	Maintenance	Adults take 2 tablets (720 mg) by oral route 2 times per day on an empty stomach

The following drug interaction information is available for MYCOPHENOLIC ACID (mycophenolate sodium):

Contraindicated
Severe
Moderate

There are 5 contraindications. These drug combinations generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. A manufacturer label warning that indicates the contraindication warrants inclusion of a drug combination in this category, regardless of clinical evidence or lack of clinical evidence to support the contraindication.

Drug Interaction	Drug Names
Efalizumab; Natalizumab/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Natalizumab,(1-3) efalizumab,(4) immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of natalizumab(1-3) or efalizumab(4) with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators may result in an increased risk of infections, including progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV). PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Previous JCV infection, longer duration of natalizumab treatment - especially if greater than 2 years, and prior or concomitant treatment with immunosuppressant medication are all independent risk factors which increase the risk for PML.(1,5) The FDA has estimated PML incidence stratified by risk factors: If anti-JCV antibody positive, no prior immunosuppressant use and natalizumab treatment less than 25 months, incidence <1/1,000. If anti-JCV antibody positive, history of prior immunosuppressant use and natalizumab treatment less than 25 months, incidence 2/1,000 If anti-JCV antibody positive, no prior immunosuppressant use and natalizumab treatment 25-48 months, incidence 4/1,000 If anti-JCV antibody positive, history of prior immunosuppressant use and natalizumab treatment 25-48 months, incidence 11/1,000. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of natalizumab states patients with Crohn's disease should not receive concurrent immunosuppressants, with the exception of limited overlap of corticosteroids, due to the increased risk for PML. For new natalizumab patients currently receiving chronic oral corticosteroids for Crohn's Disease, begin corticosteroid taper when therapeutic response to natalizumab has occurred. If corticosteroids cannot be discontinued within six months of starting natalizumab, discontinue natalizumab.(3) The US manufacturer of natalizumab states that natalizumab should not ordinarily be used in multiple sclerosis patients receiving immunosuppressants or immunomodulators due to the increased risk for PML. Immunosuppressives include, but are not limited to azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, cyclosporine, mercaptopurine, methotrexate, mitoxantrone, mycophenolate, and corticosteroids.(3,6) The UK manufacturer of natalizumab states that concurrent use with immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents is contraindicated.(1) The Canadian manufacturer of natalizumab states that natalizumab should not be used with immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory agents.(2) The US manufacturer of certolizumab states that concurrent therapy with natalizumab is not recommended.(7) DISCUSSION: Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy has been reported in patients receiving concurrent natalizumab were recently or concomitantly taking immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1-5,8,9) In a retrospective cohort study of multiple sclerosis patients newly initiated on a disease-modifying therapy, use of high-efficacy agents (alemtuzumab, natalizumab, or ocrelizumab) resulted in the same risk of overall infections as moderate-efficacy agents, but there was an elevated risk of serious infections (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.06-1.44) and UTIs (aHR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.14-1.30).(10)	TYSABRI
Live Vaccines; Live BCG/Selected Immunosuppressive Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: A variety of disease modifying agents suppress the immune system. Immunocompromised patients may be at increased risk for uninhibited replication after administration of live, attenuated vaccines or intravesicular BCG. Immune response to vaccines may be decreased during periods of immunocompromise.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The expected serum antibody response may not be obtained and/or the vaccine may result in illness.(1) After instillation of intravesicular BCG, immunosuppression may interfere with local immune response, or increase the severity of mycobacterial infection following inadvertent systemic exposure.(2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Immunosuppressive diseases (e.g. hematologic malignancies, HIV disease), treatments (e.g. radiation) and drugs may all increase the magnitude of immunodeficiency. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Centers for Disease Control(CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) states that live-virus and live, attenuated vaccines should not be administered to patients who are immunocompromised. The magnitude of immunocompromise and associated risks should be determined by a physician.(1) For patients scheduled to receive chemotherapy, vaccination should ideally precede the initiation of chemotherapy by 14 days. Patients vaccinated while on immunosuppressive therapy or in the 2 weeks prior to starting therapy should be considered unimmunized and should be revaccinated at least 3 months after discontinuation of therapy.(1) Patients who receive anti-B cell therapies should not receive live vaccines for at least 6 months after such therapies due to a prolonged duration of immunosuppression. An exception is the Zoster vaccine, which can be given at least 1 month after receipt of anti-B cell therapies.(1) The US manufacturer of abatacept states live vaccines should not be given during or for up to 3 months after discontinuation of abatacept.(2) The US manufacturer of live BCG for intravesicular treatment of bladder cancer states use is contraindicated in immunosuppressed patients.(3) The US manufacturer of daclizumab states live vaccines are not recommended during and for up to 4 months after discontinuation of treatment.(4) The US manufacturer of guselkumab states that live vaccines should be avoided during treatment with guselkumab.(5) The US manufacturer of inebilizumab-cdon states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and after discontinuation until B-cell repletion. Administer all live vaccinations at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of inebilizumab-cdon.(6) The US manufacturer of ocrelizumab states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and until B-cell repletion occurs after discontinuation of therapy. Administer all live vaccines at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of ocrelizumab.(7) The US manufacturer of ozanimod states that live vaccines should be avoided during and for up to 3 months after discontinuation of ozanimod.(8) The US manufacturer of siponimod states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and for up to 4 weeks after discontinuation of treatment.(9) The US manufacturer of ustekinumab states BCG vaccines should not be given in the year prior to, during, or the year after ustekinumab therapy.(10) The US manufacturer of satralizumab-mwge states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and should be administered at least four weeks prior to initiation of satralizumab-mwge.(11) The US manufacturer of ublituximab-xiiy states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and until B-cell recovery. Live vaccines should be administered at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of ublituximab-xiiy.(12) The US manufacturer of etrasimod states that live vaccines should be avoided during and for 5 weeks after treatment. Live vaccines should be administered at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of etrasimod.(13) The US manufacturer of emapalumab-lzsg states that live vaccines should not be administered to patients receiving emapalumab-lzsg and for at least 4 weeks after the last dose of emapalumab-lzsg. The safety of immunization with live vaccines during or following emapalumab-lzsg therapy has not been studied.(14) DISCUSSION: Killed or inactivated vaccines do not pose a danger to immunocompromised patients.(1) Patients with a history of leukemia who are in remission and have not received chemotherapy for at least 3 months are not considered to be immunocompromised.(1)	ACAM2000 (NATIONAL STOCKPILE), ADENOVIRUS TYPE 4, ADENOVIRUS TYPE 4 AND TYPE 7, ADENOVIRUS TYPE 7, BCG (TICE STRAIN), BCG VACCINE (TICE STRAIN), DENGVAXIA, ERVEBO (NATIONAL STOCKPILE), FLUMIST 2025-2026, FLUMIST HOME 2025-2026, IXCHIQ, M-M-R II VACCINE, PRIORIX, PROQUAD, ROTARIX, ROTATEQ, STAMARIL, VARIVAX VACCINE, VAXCHORA ACTIVE COMPONENT, VAXCHORA VACCINE, VIVOTIF, YF-VAX
Talimogene laherparepvec/Selected Immunosuppressants SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Talimogene laherparepvec is a live, attenuated herpes simplex virus.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of talimogene laherparepvec in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy may cause a life-threatening disseminated herpetic infection.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Talimogene laherparepvec is contraindicated in immunosuppressed patients.(1) The magnitude of immunocompromise and associated risks due to immunosuppressant drugs should be determined by a physician. DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of talimogene laherparepvec in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy may cause a life-threatening disseminated herpetic infection.(1)	IMLYGIC
Nadofaragene Firadenovec/Selected Immunosuppressants SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Nadofaragene firadenovec may contain low levels of replication-competent adenovirus.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of nadofaragene firadenovec in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy may cause disseminated adenovirus infection.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Individuals who are immunosuppressed or immune-deficient should not receive nadofaragene firadenovec.(1) DISCUSSION: Nadofaragene firadenovec is a non-replicating adenoviral vector-based gene therapy but may contain low levels of replication-competent adenovirus. Immunocompromised persons, including those receiving immunosuppressant therapy, may be at risk for disseminated adenovirus infection.(1)	ADSTILADRIN
Ropeginterferon alfa-2b/Select Immunosuppressives SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ropeginterferon alfa-2b and immunosuppressives both suppress the immune system. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ropeginterferon alfa-2b with immunosuppressives may result in an increased risk of serious infections. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US and UK manufacturers of ropeginterferon alfa-2b state that concurrent use of ropeginterferon alfa-2b in transplant patients receiving immunosuppressive agents is contraindicated.(1-2) DISCUSSION: In clinical trials, 20% of patients experienced leukopenia. Interferon alfa products may cause fatal or life-threatening infections.(1-2)	BESREMI

There are 20 severe interactions. These drug interactions can produce serious consequences in most patients. Actions required for severe interactions include, but are not limited to, discontinuing one or both agents, adjusting dosage, altering administration scheduling, and providing additional patient monitoring. Review the full interaction monograph for more information.

Drug Interaction	Drug Names
Mycophenolate/Bile Acid Sequestrants SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Bile acid sequestrants may bind mycophenolate in the intestine, preventing the absorption of the oral formulation of mycophenolate and the enterohepatic recirculation of both the oral and intravenous formulations of mycophenolate.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of mycophenolate and a bile acid sequestrant may decrease the levels and clinical effects of mycophenolate.(1,2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturers of mycophenolate state that the concurrent administration of mycophenolate and bile acid sequestrants is not recommended.(1,2) Consider the use of other agents in patients receiving mycophenolate therapy. DISCUSSION: In a study in 12 healthy subjects, the administration of mycophenolate (1.5 grams) following pretreatment with cholestyramine (4 grams three times daily) resulted in a 40% decrease in the area-under-curve (AUC) of mycophenolate. The interaction is also expected to occur with intravenous mycophenolate, because it also undergoes enterohepatic circulation.(1)	CHOLESTYRAMINE, CHOLESTYRAMINE LIGHT, CHOLESTYRAMINE RESIN, COLESEVELAM HCL, COLESTID, COLESTIPOL HCL, PREVALITE, QUESTRAN, QUESTRAN LIGHT, WELCHOL
Hormonal Contraceptives/Mycophenolate SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: The exact mechanism is unknown. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of mycophenolate may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. The use of mycophenolate in pregnancy has been associated with an increased risk for first trimester pregnancy loss and and congenital malformations.(1,2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients should be informed that mycophenolate may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives and that the use of mycophenolate in pregnancy has been associated with an increased risk for first trimester pregnancy loss and congenital malformations.(1,2) Female patients of childbearing potential should use two forms of contraception four weeks prior to initiating mycophenolate, during therapy, and for six weeks after completing mycophenolate therapy.(1,2) DISCUSSION: In a study in 18 female patients, concurrent mycophenolate mofetil (1 gram twice daily) and oral contraceptives containing ethinyl estradiol (0.02 to 0.04 mg) with levonorgestrel (0.05 mg to 0.20 mg), desogestrel (0.15 mg), or gestodene (0.05 mg to 0.10 mg) decreased the area-under-curve (AUC) of levonorgestrel by 15%. There was large inter-patient variability in the data, especially for ethinyl estradiol. Mean serum levels of LH, FSH, and progesterone were not significantly affected. (1)	2-METHOXYESTRADIOL, AFIRMELLE, ALTAVERA, ALYACEN, AMETHIA, AMETHYST, ANNOVERA, APRI, ARANELLE, ASHLYNA, AUBRA, AUBRA EQ, AUROVELA, AUROVELA 24 FE, AUROVELA FE, AVERI, AVIANE, AYUNA, AZURETTE, BALCOLTRA, BALZIVA, BEYAZ, BLISOVI 24 FE, BLISOVI FE, BRIELLYN, CAMILA, CAMRESE, CAMRESE LO, CAZIANT, CHARLOTTE 24 FE, CHATEAL EQ, CRYSELLE, CYRED, CYRED EQ, DASETTA, DAYSEE, DEBLITANE, DEPO-PROVERA, DEPO-SUBQ PROVERA 104, DESOGESTR-ETH ESTRAD ETH ESTRA, DIETHYLSTILBESTROL, DOLISHALE, DROSPIRENONE-ETH ESTRA-LEVOMEF, DROSPIRENONE-ETHINYL ESTRADIOL, ELINEST, ELLA, ELURYNG, EMZAHH, ENILLORING, ENPRESSE, ENSKYCE, ERRIN, ESTARYLLA, ESTRADIOL, ESTRADIOL BENZOATE, ESTRADIOL CYPIONATE, ESTRADIOL HEMIHYDRATE, ESTRADIOL HEMIHYDRATE MICRO, ESTRADIOL MICRONIZED, ESTRADIOL VALERATE, ESTRIOL, ESTRIOL MICRONIZED, ESTRONE, ETHINYL ESTRADIOL, ETHYNODIOL-ETHINYL ESTRADIOL, ETONOGESTREL-ETHINYL ESTRADIOL, FALMINA, FEIRZA, FEMLYV, FINZALA, GALBRIELA, GEMMILY, HAILEY, HAILEY 24 FE, HAILEY FE, HALOETTE, HEATHER, ICLEVIA, INCASSIA, INTROVALE, ISIBLOOM, JAIMIESS, JASMIEL, JENCYCLA, JOLESSA, JOYEAUX, JULEBER, JUNEL, JUNEL FE, JUNEL FE 24, KAITLIB FE, KALLIGA, KARIVA, KELNOR 1-35, KELNOR 1-50, KURVELO, LARIN, LARIN 24 FE, LARIN FE, LEENA, LESSINA, LEVONEST, LEVONORG-ETH ESTRAD ETH ESTRAD, LEVONORG-ETH ESTRAD-FE BISGLYC, LEVONORGESTREL-ETH ESTRADIOL, LEVORA-28, LO LOESTRIN FE, LO-ZUMANDIMINE, LOESTRIN, LOESTRIN FE, LOJAIMIESS, LORYNA, LOW-OGESTREL, LUTERA, LYLEQ, LYZA, MARLISSA, MEDROXYPROGESTERONE ACETATE, MELEYA, MERZEE, MIBELAS 24 FE, MICROGESTIN, MICROGESTIN FE, MILI, MINZOYA, MONO-LINYAH, NATAZIA, NECON, NEXPLANON, NEXTSTELLIS, NIKKI, NORA-BE, NORELGESTROMIN-ETH ESTRADIOL, NORETHIN-ETH ESTRA-FERROUS FUM, NORETHINDRON-ETHINYL ESTRADIOL, NORETHINDRONE, NORETHINDRONE-E.ESTRADIOL-IRON, NORGESTIMATE-ETHINYL ESTRADIOL, NORTREL, NUVARING, NYLIA, OCELLA, ORQUIDEA, ORTHO TRI-CYCLEN, ORTHO-NOVUM, PHILITH, PIMTREA, PORTIA, RECLIPSEN, RIVELSA, ROSYRAH, SAFYRAL, SETLAKIN, SHAROBEL, SIMLIYA, SIMPESSE, SLYND, SPRINTEC, SRONYX, SYEDA, TARINA 24 FE, TARINA FE, TARINA FE 1-20 EQ, TAYTULLA, TILIA FE, TRI-ESTARYLLA, TRI-LEGEST FE, TRI-LINYAH, TRI-LO-ESTARYLLA, TRI-LO-MARZIA, TRI-LO-MILI, TRI-LO-SPRINTEC, TRI-MILI, TRI-SPRINTEC, TRI-VYLIBRA, TRI-VYLIBRA LO, TULANA, TURQOZ, TWIRLA, TYBLUME, VALTYA, VELIVET, VESTURA, VIENVA, VIORELE, VOLNEA, VYFEMLA, VYLIBRA, WERA, WYMZYA FE, XARAH FE, XELRIA FE, XULANE, YASMIN 28, YAZ, ZAFEMY, ZARAH, ZOVIA 1-35, ZUMANDIMINE
Mycophenolate/Rifampin SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Rifampin may induce the metabolism of mycophenolate.(1-3) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of rifampin may decrease the levels and effectiveness of mycophenolate.(1-3) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of mycophenolate mofetil states that concurrent use is not recommended unless the benefit outweighs the risk.(1) DISCUSSION: In a prospective, open-label, nonrandomized, controlled trial in 8 stable renal allograft recipients, rifampin (600 mg daily for 8 days) decreased the 0-12 hour area-under-curve (AUC) of mycophenolic acid by 17.5%.(2) In a single heart-lung transplant patient, concurrent rifampin decreased exposure to mycophenolic acid by 67%.(1,3)	RIFADIN, RIFAMPIN
Deferiprone/Selected Myelosuppressive Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of deferiprone with other drugs known to be associated with neutropenia or agranulocytosis may increase the frequency or risk for severe toxicity.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of deferiprone and myelosuppressive agents may result in severe neutropenia or agranulocytosis, which may be fatal. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Agranulocytosis may be less common in patients receiving deferiprone for thalassemia, and more common in patients treated for other systemic iron overload conditions (e.g. myelodysplastic syndromes, sickle cell disease).(2,3) Inadequate monitoring appears to increase the risk for severe outcomes. Manufacturer post market surveillance found that in all fatal cases of agranulocytosis reported between 1999 and 2005, data on weekly white blood count (WBC) monitoring was missing. In three fatal cases, deferiprone was continued for two to seven days after the detection of neutropenia or agranulocytosis.(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, discontinue one of the drugs associated with risk for neutropenia or agranulocytosis. If alternative therapy is not available, documentation and adherence to the deferiprone monitoring protocol is essential. Baseline absolute neutrophil count (ANC) must be at least 1,500/uL prior to starting deferiprone. Monitor ANC weekly during therapy. If infection develops, interrupt deferiprone therapy and monitor ANC more frequently. If ANC is less than 1,500/uL but greater than 500/uL, discontinue deferiprone and any other drugs possibly associated with neutropenia. Initiate ANC and platelet counts daily until recovery (i.e. ANC at least 1,500/uL). If ANC is less than 500/uL, discontinue deferiprone, evaluate patient and hospitalize if appropriate. Do not resume deferiprone unless potential benefits outweigh potential risks.(1) DISCUSSION: Drugs linked to this monograph have an FDA Boxed Warning for risk of neutropenia, agranulocytosis, or pancytopenia, or have > 5% risk for neutropenia and/or warnings describing risk for myelosuppression in manufacturer prescribing information.(1-25) In pooled clinical studies submitted to the FDA, 6.1% of deferiprone patients met criteria for neutropenia and 1.7% of patients developed agranulocytosis.(1) The time to onset of agranulocytosis was highly variable with a range of 65 days to 9.2 years (median, 161 days).(3)	DEFERIPRONE, DEFERIPRONE (3 TIMES A DAY), FERRIPROX, FERRIPROX (2 TIMES A DAY), FERRIPROX (3 TIMES A DAY)
Tofacitinib/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of tofacitinib and azathioprine, other biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), or potent immunosuppressants may result in additive or synergistic effects on the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of tofacitinib and azathioprine, other biologic DMARDs, or potent immunosuppressants use may increase the risk of serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Tofacitinib should not be used concurrently with azathioprine, other biologic DMARDs, or cyclosporine.(1) Patient should be monitored for decreases in lymphocytes and neutrophils. Therapy should be adjusted based on the indication. - For all indications: If absolute neutrophil count (ANC) or lymphocyte count is less than 500 cells/mm3, discontinue tofacitinib. - For rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis and absolute neutrophil count (ANC) 500 to 1000 cells/mm3: interrupt dosing. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, resume Xeljanz 5 mg twice daily or Xeljanz XR 11 mg once daily. - For ulcerative colitis and ANC 500 to 1000 cells/mm3: -If taking Xeljanz 10 mg twice daily, decrease to 5 mg twice daily. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, increase to 10 mg twice daily based on clinical response. -If taking Xeljanz 5 mg twice daily, interrupt dosing. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, resume 5 mg twice daily. -If taking Xeljanz XR 22 mg once daily, decrease to 11 mg once daily. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, increase to 22 mg once daily based on clinical response. -If taking Xeljanz XR 11 mg once daily, interrupt dosing. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, resume 11 mg once daily. - For polyarticular course juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pcJIA) and ANC 500 to 1000 cells/mm3: interrupt dosing until ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3.(1) DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of tofacitinib and azathioprine, other biologic DMARDs, or potent immunosuppressants may increase the risk of infection.(1)	TOFACITINIB CITRATE, XELJANZ, XELJANZ XR
Clozapine/Selected Myelosuppressive Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Clozapine and other myelosuppressive agents may be associated with neutropenia or agranulocytosis.(2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Moderate neutropenia, even if due to combination therapy, may require abrupt discontinuation of clozapine resulting in decompensation of the patient's psychiatric disorder (e.g. schizophrenia). The disease treated by the myelosuppressive agent may be compromised if myelosuppression requires dose reduction, delay, or discontinuation of the myelosuppressive agent. Undetected severe neutropenia or agranulocytosis may be fatal. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Low white blood counts prior to initiation of the myelosuppressive agent may increase risk for clinically significant neutropenia. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If a patient stabilized on clozapine therapy requires treatment with a myelosuppressive agent, the clozapine prescriber should consult with prescriber of the myelosuppressive agent (e.g. oncologist) to discuss treatment and monitoring options.(2) More frequent ANC monitoring or treatment alternatives secondary to neutropenic episodes may need to be considered. Clozapine is only available through a restricted distribution system which requires documentation of the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) prior to dispensing.(1-2) For most clozapine patients, clozapine treatment must be interrupted for a suspected clozapine-induced ANC < 1000 cells/microliter. For patients with benign ethnic neutropenia (BEN), treatment must be interrupted for suspected clozapine-induced neutropenia < 500 cells/microliter.(2) DISCUSSION: Clozapine is only available through a restricted distribution system which requires documentation of the ANC prior to dispensing.(1) Agents linked to this interaction generally have > 5% risk for neutropenia and/or warnings describing risk for myelosuppression in manufacturer prescribing information.(3-26)	CLOZAPINE, CLOZAPINE ODT, CLOZARIL, VERSACLOZ
Selected Multiple Sclerosis Agents/Immunosuppressants; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ocrelizumab or ofatumumab in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1,2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ocrelizumab or ofatumumab with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1,2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The ocrelizumab US prescribing information states: - Ocrelizumab and other immune-modulating or immunosuppressive therapies, (including immunosuppressant doses of corticosteroids) are expected to increase the risk of immunosuppression, and the risk of additive immune system effects must be considered if these therapies are coadministered with ocrelizumab. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, such as daclizumab, fingolimod, natalizumab, teriflunomide, or mitoxantrone, the duration and mode of action of these drugs must be considered to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects when initiating ocrelizumab.(1) The ofatumumab US prescribing information states: - Ofatumumab and other immunosuppressive therapies (including systemic corticosteroids) may have the potential for increased immunosuppressive effects and increase the risk of infection. When switching between therapies, the duration and mechanism of action of each therapy should be considered due to the potential for additive immunosuppressive effects. Ofatumumab for MS therapy has not been studied in combination with other MS agents that suppress the immune system.(2) DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1,2) In a retrospective cohort study of multiple sclerosis patients newly initiated on a disease-modifying therapy, use of high-efficacy agents (alemtuzumab, natalizumab, or ocrelizumab) resulted in the same risk of overall infections as moderate-efficacy agents, but there was an elevated risk of serious infections (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.06-1.44) and UTIs (aHR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.14-1.30).(3)	KESIMPTA PEN, OCREVUS, OCREVUS ZUNOVO
Upadacitinib/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Upadacitinib, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of upadacitinib with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators may result in an increased risk of serious infections. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of upadacitinib states that concurrent use of upadacitinib with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators is not recommended. DISCUSSION: Serious infections have been reported in patients receiving upadacitinib. Reported infections included pneumonia, cellulitis, tuberculosis, multidermatomal herpes zoster, oral/esophageal candidiasis, cryptococcosis. Reports of viral reactivation, including herpes virus reactivation and hepatitis B reactivation, were reported in clinical studies with upadacitinib.(1)	RINVOQ, RINVOQ LQ
Inebilizumab/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inebilizumab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of inebilizumab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in myelosuppression including neutropenia resulting in an increased risk for serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of inebilizumab states that the concurrent use of inebilizumab with immunosuppressive agents, including systemic corticosteroids, may increase the risk of infection. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents.(1) DISCUSSION: Inebilizumab has not been studied in combination with other immunosuppressants. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the potential for increased immunosuppressive risks from both agents. The most common infections reported by inebilizumab treated patients in the randomized and open-label clinical trial periods included urinary tract infections (20%), nasopharyngitis (13%), upper respiratory tract infections (8%), and influenza (7%). Although there been no cases of Hepatitis B virus reactivation or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy reported in patients taking inebilizumab, these infections have been observed in patients taking other B-cell-depleting antibodies.(1)	UPLIZNA
Baricitinib/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of baricitinib with other biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine or cyclosporine may result in additive or synergistic effects on the immune system. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of baricitinib with other biologic DMARDs or potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine or cyclosporine may increase the risk of serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of baricitinib states that concurrent use of baricitinib with biologic DMARDs or potent immunosuppressants is not recommended.(1) DISCUSSION: Most patients who developed serious infections while being treated with baricitinib were on concomitant immunosuppressants like methotrexate and corticosteroids. The combination of baricitinib with other biologic DMARDs has not been studied.(1)	OLUMIANT
Leflunomide; Teriflunomide/Selected Immunosuppressants SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of leflunomide or teriflunomide and potent immunosuppressants may result in additive or synergistic effects on the immune system.(1,2) Leflunomide is a prodrug and is converted to its active metabolite teriflunomide.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of leflunomide or teriflunomide with immunosuppressants may result in an increased risk of serious infections, including opportunistic infections, especially Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia, tuberculosis (including extra-pulmonary tuberculosis), and aspergillosis. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If leflunomide or teriflunomide is used concurrently with immunosuppressive agents, chronic CBC monitoring should be performed more frequently, every month instead of every 6 to 8 weeks. If bone marrow suppression or a serious infection occurs, leflunomide or teriflunomide should be stopped and rapid drug elimination procedure should be performed.(1,2) DISCUSSION: Pancytopenia, agranulocytosis and thrombocytopenia have been reported in patients receiving leflunomide or teriflunomide alone, but most frequently in patients taking concurrent immunosuppressants.(1,2) Severe and potentially fatal infections, including sepsis, have been reported in patients receiving leflunomide or teriflunomide, especially Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia and aspergillosis. Tuberculosis has also been reported.(1,2)	ARAVA, AUBAGIO, LEFLUNICLO, LEFLUNOMIDE, TERIFLUNOMIDE
Ponesimod/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ponesimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ponesimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection, cryptococcal infection, or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The ponesimod US prescribing information states ponesimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Caution should be used during concomitant administration because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the weeks following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects. Initiating treatment with ponesimod after alemtuzumab is not recommended. However, ponesimod can generally be started immediately after discontinuation of beta interferon or glatiramer acetate.(1) DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections, cryptococcal meningitis, disseminated cryptococcal infections, and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1)	PONVORY
Sodium Iodide I 131/Myelosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Sodium iodide I 131 can cause depression of the hematopoetic system. Myelosuppressives and immunomodulators also suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of sodium iodide I 131 with agents that cause bone marrow depression, including myelosuppressives or immunomodulators, may result in an enhanced risk of hematologic disorders, including anemia, blood dyscrasias, bone marrow depression, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. Bone marrow depression may increase the risk of serious infections and bleeding.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of sodium iodide I 131 states that concurrent use with bone marrow depressants may enhance the depression of the hematopoetic system caused by large doses of sodium iodide I 131.(1) Sodium iodide I 131 causes a dose-dependent bone marrow suppression, including neutropenia or thrombocytopenia, in the 3 to 5 weeks following administration. Patients may be at increased risk of infections or bleeding during this time. Monitor complete blood counts within one month of therapy. If results indicate leukopenia or thrombocytopenia, dosimetry should be used to determine a safe sodium iodide I 131 activity.(1) DISCUSSION: Hematologic disorders including death have been reported with sodium iodide I 131. The most common hematologic disorders reported include anemia, blood dyscrasias, bone marrow depression, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia.(1)	HICON, SODIUM IODIDE I-131
Fingolimod/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Fingolimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1-3) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of fingolimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1-3) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Recommendations for fingolimod regarding this interaction differ between regulatory approving agencies. The fingolimod US prescribing information states: - Antineoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies, (including corticosteroids) are expected to increase the risk of immunosuppression, and the risk of additive immune system effects must be considered if these therapies are coadministered with fingolimod. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, such as natalizumab, teriflunomide or mitoxantrone, the duration and mode of action of these drugs must be considered to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects when initiating fingolimod.(1) The fingolimod Canadian prescribing information states: - Concurrent use with immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory agents is contraindicated due to the risk of additive immune system effects. However, co-administration of a short course of corticosteroids (up to 5 days) did not increase the overall rate of infection in patients participating Phase III clinical trials.(2) The fingolimod UK specific product characteristics states: - Fingolimod is contraindicated in patients currently receiving immunosuppressive therapies or those immunocompromised by prior therapies. When switching patients from another disease modifying therapy to Gilenya, the half-life and mode of action of the other therapy must be considered in order to avoid an additive immune effect whilst at the same time minimizing the risk of disease activation.(3) DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1-3)	FINGOLIMOD, GILENYA, TASCENSO ODT
Ozanimod/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ozanimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ozanimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The ozanimod US prescribing information state this information regarding this interaction: -Ozanimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Caution should be used during concomitant administration because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the week following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects. Initiating treatment with ozanimod after alemtuzumab is not recommended. However, ozanimod can generally be started immediately after discontinuation of beta interferon or glatiramer acetate.(1) DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1)	ZEPOSIA
Siponimod/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Siponimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of siponimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The siponimod US prescribing information state this information regarding this interaction: -Siponimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Caution should be used during concomitant administration because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the week following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects. Initiating treatment with siponimod after alemtuzumab is not recommended. However, siponimod can generally be started immediately after discontinuation of beta interferon or glatiramer acetate.(1) DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1)	MAYZENT
Cladribine/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Cladribine in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1-2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of cladribine with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1-2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Recommendations for cladribine regarding this interaction differ between regulatory approving agencies. The cladribine US prescribing information states: -Concomitant use with myelosuppressive or other immunosuppressive drugs is not recommended. Acute short-term therapy with corticosteroids can be administered. In patients who have previously been treated with immunomodulatory or immunosuppressive drugs, consider potential additive effect, the mode of action, and duration of effect of the other drugs prior to initiation of cladribine.(1) The cladribine Canadian prescribing information states: -Use of cladribine in immunocompromised patients is contraindicated because of a risk of additive effects on the immune system. Acute short-term therapy with corticosteroids can be administered during cladribine treatment.(2) DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1-2)	CLADRIBINE, MAVENCLAD
Ritlecitinib/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ritlecitinib, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ritlecitinib with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators may result in an increased risk of serious infections. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ritlecitinib states that concurrent use of ritlecitinib with other JAK inhibitors, biologic immunomodulators, cyclosporine or other potent immunosuppressants is not recommended.(1) DISCUSSION: Serious infections have been reported in patients receiving ritlecitinib. Reported infections included appendicitis, COVID-19 infection (including pneumonia), and sepsis. Reports of viral reactivation, including herpes virus reactivation was reported in clinical studies with ritlecitinib.(1)	LITFULO
Etrasimod/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Etrasimod causes reversible sequestration of lymphocytes in lymphoid tissues, resulting in a mean 55% decrease in peripheral blood lymphocyte count at 52 weeks.(1) Other immunosuppressives and immune-modulators also suppress the immune system. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of etrasimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious and fatal infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection, cryptococcal infection, or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML).(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications increases the risk of adverse effects. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The etrasimod US prescribing information states etrasimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Concomitant administration of these therapies with etrasimod should be avoided because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the weeks following administration. Etrasimod's effect on peripheral lymphocytes may persist for up to 5 weeks after discontinuation.(1) When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects.(1) DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections, cryptococcal meningitis, disseminated cryptococcal infections, and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients treated with other sphingosine-1 phosphate receptor modulators.(1)	VELSIPITY
Deuruxolitinib/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Deuruxolitinib, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of deuruxolitinib and potent immunosuppressants may increase the risk of serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of deuruxolitinib states that concurrent use of deuruxolitinib with other JAK inhibitors, biologic immunomodulators, cyclosporine or other potent immunosuppressants is not recommended.(1) If concurrent use cannot be avoided, patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of infection. If a patient develops a serious or opportunistic infection, interrupt deuruxolitinib treatment until the infection is controlled. DISCUSSION: Serious infections have been reported in patients receiving treatment with deuruxolitinib.(1)	LEQSELVI

There are 7 moderate interactions. The clinician should assess the patient’s characteristics and take action as needed. Actions required for moderate interactions include, but are not limited to, discontinuing one or both agents, adjusting dosage, altering administration.

Drug Interaction	Drug Names
Mycophenolate/Aluminum & Magnesium Antacids; Lanthanum; Sevelamer SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Aluminum or magnesium antacids and non-calcium containing phosphate binders such as lanthanum and sevelamer decrease the absorption of mycophenolate.(1-3) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The simultaneous administration of mycophenolate with aluminum or magnesium antacids and non-calcium containing phosphate binders such as lanthanum and sevelamer may decrease the levels of mycophenolate and its clinical effects. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of mycophenolate mofetil states that calcium free phosphate binders, such as sevelamer, should not be administered simultaneously with mycophenolate mofetil. Administer sevelamer at least 2 hours after administration of mycophenolate mofetil to decrease the extent of the interaction.(1) The US manufacturer of mycophenolate sodium states that mycophenolate sodium should not be administered simultaneously with antacids. Administer aluminum or magnesium containing antacids at least 2 hours after mycophenolate.(2) Close monitoring of mycophenolic acid levels may be warranted in patients on mycophenolate mofetil therapy that are initiating or discontinuing concurrent therapy with these agents. Patients on concurrent therapies may also require higher doses of mycophenolate mofetil in order to achieve desired blood levels. DISCUSSION: In a study in 10 rheumatoid arthritis patients, the simultaneous administration of mycophenolate and Maalox TC (an antacid containing magnesium and aluminum hydroxide) resulted in decreases in the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of mycophenolate by 33% and 17%, respectively.(1,2) In a study of 3 adult patients and 6 pediatric patients with stable renal graft function receiving mycophenolate mofetil, sevelamer (3-4 capsules of 403 mg twice daily) decreased the AUC and Cmax of mycophenolic acid by 26% and 36%, respectively.(1,3) In a study in 12 stable renal transplant patients, administration of magnesium-aluminum-containing antacids (30 ml) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of mycophenolate sodium by 25% and 37%, respectively.(2)	ALUMINUM HYDROXIDE, CLENPIQ, FOSRENOL, LANTHANUM CARBONATE, MAGNESIUM CHLORIDE, MAGNESIUM CITRATE, MAGNESIUM OXIDE, MAGNESIUM SULFATE, RENVELA, SEVELAMER CARBONATE, SEVELAMER HCL, SOD SULF-POTASS SULF-MAG SULF, SUFLAVE, SUPREP, SUTAB
Ustekinumab/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ustekinumab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ustekinumab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in an increased risk for serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ustekinumab recommends caution because the concurrent use of ustekinumab with immunosuppressive agents may increase the risk of infection. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents.(1) DISCUSSION: Ustekinumab has not been studied in combination with other immunosuppressants in psoriasis studies. In psoriatic arthritis studies, concomitant methotrexate use did not appear to influence the safety or efficacy of ustekinumab. In Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis studies, concomitant use of immunosuppressants or corticosteroids did not appear to influence the safety or efficacy of ustekinumab. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the potential for increased immunosuppressive risks from both agents.(1) The most common infections reported by ustekinumab treated patients in the clinical trial periods included nasopharyngitis(8%) and upper respiratory tract infection(5%). Serious bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal, and viral infections were observed in patients receiving ustekinumab. Cases of interstitial pneumonia, eosinophilic pneumonia, and cryptogenic organizing pneumonia resulting in respiratory failure or prolonged hospitalization have been reported in patients receiving ustekinumab.(1)	IMULDOSA, OTULFI, PYZCHIVA, SELARSDI, STELARA, STEQEYMA, USTEKINUMAB, USTEKINUMAB-AEKN, USTEKINUMAB-TTWE, WEZLANA, YESINTEK
COVID-19 Vaccines/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Immunosuppressants and immunomodulators may prevent the immune system from properly responding to the COVID-19 vaccine.(1,2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Administration of a COVID-19 vaccine with immunosuppressants or immunomodulators may interfere with vaccine-induced immune response and impair the efficacy of the vaccine. However, patients should be offered and given a COVID-19 vaccine even if the use and timing of immunosuppressive agents cannot be adjusted.(1,2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: In an effort to optimize COVID-19 vaccine response, the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) published conditional recommendations for administration of COVID-19 vaccines with immunosuppressants and immunomodulators.(1) The CDC also provides clinical considerations for COVID-19 vaccination in patients on immunosuppressants.(2) The CDC states that all immunocompromised patients over 6 months of age should receive at least 1 dose of COVID-19 vaccine if eligible. See the CDC's Interim Clinical Considerations for Use of COVID-19 Vaccines for specific recommendations based on age, vaccination history, and vaccine manufacturer.(2) The ACR states that in general, immunosuppressants and immunomodulators should be held for 1-2 weeks after each vaccine dose. See below for specific recommendations for certain agents.(1) The CDC advises planning for vaccination at least 2 weeks before starting or resuming immunosuppressive therapy.(2) Patients should be offered and given a COVID-19 vaccine even if the use and timing of immunosuppressive agents cannot be adjusted.(1,2) B-cell depleting agents, including rituximab: The ACR recommends consulting with the rheumatologist to determine optimal timing of COVID-19 vaccination. Measuring CD19 B cells may be considered to determine need for a booster vaccine dose. If B cell levels are not measured, a supplemental vaccine dose 2-4 weeks before the next scheduled dose of rituximab is recommended.(1) The CDC states that the utility of B-cell quantification to guide clinical care is not known and is not recommended. Patients who receive B-cell depleting therapy should receive COVID-19 vaccines about 4 weeks before the next scheduled dose. For patients who received 1 or more doses of COVID-19 vaccine during treatment with B-cell-depleting therapies that were administered over a limited period (e.g., as part of a treatment regimen for certain malignancies), revaccination may be considered. The suggested interval to start revaccination is about 6 months after completion of the B-cell-depleting therapy.(2) Abatacept: - Subcutaneous abatacept should be withheld for 1-2 weeks after each vaccine dose, as disease activity allows. - For intravenous abatacept, time administration so that vaccination will occur 1 week before the next abatacept infusion.(1) Cyclophosphamide: When feasible, administer cyclophosphamide one week after each COVID-19 vaccine dose.(1) Recipients of hematopoietic cell transplant or CAR-T-cell therapy who received one or more doses of COVID-19 vaccine prior to or during treatment should undergo revaccination following the current CDC recommendations for unvaccinated patients. Revaccination should start at least 3 months (12 weeks) after transplant or CAR-T-cell therapy.(2) TNF-alpha inhibitors and cytokine inhibitors: The ACR was not able to reach consensus on whether to modify dosing or timing of these agents with COVID-19 vaccination.(1) The CDC includes these agents in their general recommendation to hold therapy for at least 2 weeks following vaccination.(2) DISCUSSION: The ACR convened a COVID-19 Vaccine Guidance Task Force to provide guidance on optimal use of COVID-19 vaccines in rheumatology patients. These recommendations are based on limited clinical evidence of COVID-19 vaccines in patients without rheumatic and musculoskeletal disorders and evidence of other vaccines in this patient population.(1) The ACR recommendation for rituximab is based on studies of humoral immunity following receipt of other vaccines. These studies have uncertain generalizability to vaccination against COVID-19, as it is unknown if efficacy is attributable to induction of host T cells versus B cell (antibody-based) immunity.(1) The ACR recommendation for mycophenolate is based on preexisting data of mycophenolate on non-COVID-19 vaccine immunogenicity. Emerging data suggests that mycophenolate may impair SARS-CoV-2 vaccine response in rheumatic and musculoskeletal disease and transplant patients.(1) The ACR recommendation for methotrexate is based on data from influenza vaccines and pneumococcal vaccines with methotrexate.(1) The ACR recommendation for JAK inhibitors is based on concerns related to the effects of JAK inhibitors on interferon signaling that may result in a diminished vaccine response.(1) The ACR recommendation for subcutaneous abatacept is based on several studies suggesting a negative effect of abatacept on vaccine immunogenicity. The first vaccine dose primes naive T cells, naive T cell priming is inhibited by CTLA-4, and abatacept is a CTLA-4Ig construct. CTLA-4 should not inhibit boosts of already primed T cells at the time of the second vaccine dose.(1)	COMIRNATY 2024-2025, MODERNA COVID 24-25(6M-11Y)EUA, NOVAVAX COVID 2024-2025 (EUA), PFIZER COVID 2024-25(5-11Y)EUA, PFIZER COVID 2024-25(6M-4Y)EUA, SPIKEVAX 2024-2025
Sarilumab/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Sarilumab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of sarilumab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in an increased risk for serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of sarilumab recommends caution because the concurrent use of sarilumab with immunosuppressive agents may increase the risk of infection. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents.(1) DISCUSSION: Sarilumab was studied as monotherapy and in combination with methotrexate or conventional disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) in rheumatoid arthritis studies. Sarilumab has not been studied with biological DMARDs and concurrent use should be avoided. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the potential for increased immunosuppressive risks from both agents.(1) The most common infections reported by sarilumab treated patients in the clinical trial periods included pneumonia and cellulitis. Serious bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal, and viral infections were observed in patients receiving sarilumab. Cases of tuberculosis, candidiasis, and pneumocystis with sarilumab have been reported.(1)	KEVZARA
Ublituximab/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ublituximab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ublituximab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in an increased risk for serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ublituximab recommends caution because the concurrent use of ublituximab with immunomodulating or immunosuppressive agents, including immunosuppressant doses of corticosteroids, may increase the risk of infection.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents. When switching from agents with immune effects, the half-life and mechanism of action of these drugs must be taken into consideration in order to prevent additive immunosuppressive effects.(1) DISCUSSION: The most common infections reported by ublituximab-treated patients in the clinical trial periods included upper respiratory tract infections and urinary tract infections. Serious, including life-threatening or fatal, bacterial and viral infections were observed in patients receiving ublituximab.(1) Serious and/or fatal bacterial, fungal, and new or reactivated viral infections have been associated with other anti-CD20 B-cell depleting therapies. There were no cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) reported during the clinical trials; however, there have been reports of PML during or following completion of other anti-CD20 B-cell depleting therapies.(1)	BRIUMVI
Patiromer/Mycophenolate SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Patiromer may bind to mycophenolate.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use may result in decreased gastrointestinal absorption and loss of efficacy of mycophenolate.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of patiromer recommends administering patiromer at least 3 hours before or 3 hours after mycophenolate.(1) DISCUSSION: An in vitro binding study found potentially clinically significant binding of mycophenolate by patiromer. It is recommended to take these drugs 3 hours apart.(1)	VELTASSA
Tocilizumab/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Tocilizumab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of tocilizumab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in an increased risk for serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of tocilizumab recommends caution because the concurrent use of tocilizumab with immunosuppressive agents may increase the risk of infection. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents.(1) DISCUSSION: Tocilizumab was studied as monotherapy and in combination with methotrexate, non-biologic DMARDs or corticosteroids, depending on the indication. Tocilizumab has not been studied with biological DMARDs and concurrent use should be avoided. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the potential for increased immunosuppressive risks from both agents.(1) The most common infections reported by tocilizumab treated patients in the clinical trial periods included pneumonia, urinary tract infection, cellulitis, herpes zoster, gastroenteritis, diverticulitis, sepsis and bacterial arthritis. Serious bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal, and viral infections were observed in patients receiving tocilizumab. Cases of tuberculosis, cryptococcus, aspergillosis, candidiasis, and pneumocystosis have been reported.(1)	ACTEMRA, ACTEMRA ACTPEN, TOFIDENCE, TYENNE, TYENNE AUTOINJECTOR

The following contraindication information is available for MYCOPHENOLIC ACID (mycophenolate sodium):

Overview
Contraindicated
Severe
Moderate

Drug contraindication overview.

*Known hypersensitivity to mycophenolate mofetil, mycophenolate sodium, mycophenolic acid, or any ingredient in the formulation. *Mycophenolate mofetil hydrochloride for IV injection; mycophenolate mofetil oral suspension (Myhibbin(R)): known hypersensitivity to polysorbate (Tween(R)) 80.

There are 4 contraindications. Absolute contraindication.

Contraindication List
BK polyomavirus reactivation nephropathy
Hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase deficiency
Lactation
Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy

There are 15 severe contraindications. Adequate patient monitoring is recommended for safer drug use.

Severe List
Chronic kidney disease stage 4 (severe) GFR 15-29 ml/min
Chronic kidney disease stage 5 (failure) GFr<15 ml/min
Cytomegalovirus disease
Gastrointestinal hemorrhage
Gastrointestinal perforation
Gastrointestinal ulcer
Herpes simplex infection
Herpes zoster in immunocompromised patient
Malignancy
Malignant lymphoma
Malignant neoplasm of skin
Neutropenic disorder
Opportunistic fungal infection
Pregnancy
Pure red cell aplasia

There are 2 moderate contraindications. Clinically significant contraindication, where the condition can be managed or treated before the drug may be given safely.

Moderate List
Bone marrow depression
Disease of liver

The following adverse reaction information is available for MYCOPHENOLIC ACID (mycophenolate sodium):

Overview
Severe
Less Severe

Adverse reaction overview.

The most common adverse effects (>=20%) with mycophenolate mofetil therapy are diarrhea, leukopenia, infection, and vomiting; there is evidence of a higher frequency of certain types of infections (e.g., opportunistic infection). The most common adverse effects (>=20%) with mycophenolate sodium therapy are anemia, leukopenia, constipation, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, dyspepsia, urinary tract infection, cytomegalovirus infection, insomnia, and postoperative pain.

There are 58 severe adverse reactions.

More Frequent	Less Frequent
Anemia Hematuria Hypertension Infection Leukocytosis Leukopenia Oral candidiasis Peripheral edema	Colitis Gastrointestinal hemorrhage Hypothyroidism Neutropenic disorder Opportunistic fungal infection

Rare/Very Rare
Active tuberculosis Acute inflammatory syndrome Acute pancreatitis Acute renal failure Agranulocytosis Anaphylaxis Angioedema Atypical mycobacterial infection Bacterial sepsis BK polyomavirus reactivation nephropathy Cardiac arrhythmia COVId-19 Cytomegalovirus disease Diarrhea with villous atrophy of the intestine Gastrointestinal perforation Gastrointestinal ulcer Hepatitis Hypersensitivity drug reaction Hypogammaglobulinemia Hypotension Impaired wound healing Interstitial lung disease Kaposi's sarcoma Lymphadenopathy Lymphocele Lymphopenia Malignancy Malignant lymphoma Meningitis Osteomyelitis Osteoporosis Pancytopenia Peritonitis Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy Protozoal infection Pulmonary edema Pulmonary fibrosis Pure red cell aplasia Reactivation of hepatitis B Reactivation of hepatitis C Thrombocytopenic disorder Urinary retention Venous thrombosis Viral infection

Rare/Very Rare

Active tuberculosis
Acute inflammatory syndrome
Acute pancreatitis
Acute renal failure
Agranulocytosis
Anaphylaxis
Angioedema
Atypical mycobacterial infection
Bacterial sepsis
BK polyomavirus reactivation nephropathy
Cardiac arrhythmia
COVId-19
Cytomegalovirus disease
Diarrhea with villous atrophy of the intestine
Gastrointestinal perforation
Gastrointestinal ulcer
Hepatitis
Hypersensitivity drug reaction
Hypogammaglobulinemia
Hypotension
Impaired wound healing
Interstitial lung disease
Kaposi's sarcoma
Lymphadenopathy
Lymphocele
Lymphopenia
Malignancy
Malignant lymphoma
Meningitis
Osteomyelitis
Osteoporosis
Pancytopenia
Peritonitis
Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease
Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy
Protozoal infection
Pulmonary edema
Pulmonary fibrosis
Pure red cell aplasia
Reactivation of hepatitis B
Reactivation of hepatitis C
Thrombocytopenic disorder
Urinary retention
Venous thrombosis
Viral infection

There are 40 less severe adverse reactions.

More Frequent	Less Frequent
Chest pain Constipation Cough Diarrhea Dyspepsia Dyspnea Headache disorder Hyperglycemia Insomnia Nausea Postoperative acute pain Symptoms of anxiety Tachycardia Upper respiratory infection Urinary tract infection Vomiting	Abdominal distension Acute abdominal pain Arthralgia Back pain Cramps in legs Depression Dizziness Ecchymosis Fever Pharyngitis Skin rash Tinnitus Visual changes

Rare/Very Rare
Acute cognitive impairment Anorexia Basal cell carcinoma of skin Bronchiectasis Drowsy Gastritis General weakness Pruritus of skin Tremor Wheezing Xerostomia

The following precautions are available for MYCOPHENOLIC ACID (mycophenolate sodium):

Pediatric
Pregnant
Lactation
Geriatric

Safety and effectiveness of mycophenolate mofetil have been established in pediatric patients >=3 months of age for the prophylaxis of organ rejection of allogenic renal, cardiac, or hepatic transplants. Use of mycophenolate mofetil in the kidney transplant population is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies in adults with additional data from one open-label, pharmacokinetic and safety study in pediatric patients. Use of mycophenolate mofetil in the pediatric cardiac or hepatic transplant population is supported by adequate and well-controlled studies and pharmacokinetic data in adult cardiac or hepatic transplant patients.

Additional supportive data include pharmacokinetic data in pediatric kidney and liver transplant patients and published findings of the drug's clinical efficacy and safety in pediatric cardiac or hepatic transplant patients. The combination of inactive ingredients (e.g., simethicone, sodium phosphate monobasic dihydrate, sodium phosphate dibasic dihydrate, glycerin) in mycophenolate mofetil oral suspension (Myhibbin(R)) may impact GI tolerability; monitor pediatric patients receiving the drug for signs and symptoms of GI intolerance. Safety and efficacy of mycophenolate sodium (e.g., Myfortic(R) ) in stable renal transplant pediatric patients 5-16 years of age who were initiated on the drug >=6 months posttransplant is based on evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies in a similar population of adult renal transplant patients with additional pharmacokinetic data in stable renal transplant pediatric patients.

Safety and efficacy of mycophenolate sodium have not been established in pediatric de novo renal transplant patients or in pediatric renal transplant patients <5 years of age. A mycophenolate sodium dosage form suitable for providing an appropriate dosage for pediatric patients with a body surface area less than 1.19 m2 is not commercially available in the US.

Limited data are available concerning use of mycophenolate sodium in pediatric patients. Following administration of a single dose of mycophenolate sodium (mycophenolic acid 450 mg/m2) delayed-release tablets in stable pediatric renal transplant patients 5-16 years of age, peak plasma concentrations and AUC of mycophenolic acid were 33 and 18% higher, respectively, than those reported in adults receiving the same dose based on body surface area (720 mg). The clinical importance of these findings remains to be determined.

Pharmacokinetic data are not available in pediatric patients younger than 5 years of age. Pharmacokinetic parameters, including AUC, in children 1-18 years of age receiving mycophenolate mofetil 600 mg/m2 (oral suspension) twice daily following renal transplantation, are similar to values in adult renal transplant recipients receiving 1 g twice daily.

Contraindicated

None

Severe Precaution

None

Management or Monitoring Precaution

None

A pregnancy exposure registry is available that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to mycophenolate during pregnancy and those becoming pregnant within 6 weeks of discontinuing the drug. To report a pregnancy or obtain information about the registry, visit https://mycophenolaterems.com or call 1-800-617-8191.

Mycophenolate may cause fetal toxicity when administered to pregnant women. Use of mycophenolate has been associated with increased risk of first-trimester pregnancy loss and serious congenital malformations in multiple organ systems, based on published data from pregnancy registries. Documented malformations include external ear and other facial abnormalities (e.g., cleft lip and palate) and anomalies of the distal limbs, heart, esophagus, kidney, and nervous system.

Congenital malformations and pregnancy loss have been observed in rats and rabbits receiving mycophenolate at doses less than the recommended human dose; maternal toxicity was not observed. Apprise females of reproductive potential and pregnant women of the potential hazard. Consider alternative immunosuppressants with less potential for embryofetal toxicity.

Perform a blood or urine pregnancy test (i.e., having a sensitivity of at least 25 mIU/mL for HCG) immediately prior to beginning mycophenolate therapy, and repeat the pregnancy test with the same sensitivity 8--10 days later. Perform repeat pregnancy tests during routine follow-up visits.

There are no data on the presence of mycophenolate in human milk or the effects of the drug on milk production. Limited data are available from the National Transplantation Pregnancy Registry on the effects of mycophenolate on breast-fed children. Mycophenolic acid is distributed into milk in rats.

It is not possible to exclude potential risks to nursing infants. Consider the developmental and health benefits of breast-feeding along with the mother's clinical need for mycophenolate and any potential adverse effects on the breast-fed infant from the drug or from the underlying maternal condition.

Clinical studies of mycophenolate did not include sufficient numbers of patients 65 years of age or older to determine whether they respond differently than younger adults. While other clinical experience has not revealed differences in response, drug dosages should be selected cautiously in geriatric patients. The greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, and/or cardiac function and of concomitant diseases and drug therapy observed in the elderly also should be considered.

Geriatric patients may be at increased risk of developing GI hemorrhage, pulmonary edema, or certain infections (e.g., invasive CMV infection) than younger patients. The pharmacokinetics of mycophenolate mofetil and its metabolites have not been found to be altered in geriatric transplant patients compared to younger transplant patients. Pharmacokinetics of mycophenolate sodium in geriatric patients have not been formally studied.

Prevention of kidney transplant rejection
Z94.0	Kidney transplant status