IPCA MMF- S ( MYCOPHENOLIC ACID TABLETS 360MG)

Product Description

IPCA MMF-S (Mycophenolic Acid Tablets 360 mg) contain Mycophenolic Acid (MPA), which is an immunosuppressive agent used primarily to prevent organ rejection in patients who have received kidney, heart, or liver transplants. It works by suppressing the immune system to prevent the body from attacking the transplanted organ.

Key Uses:

1. Organ Transplantation: IPCA MMF-S 360 mg is commonly used in combination with other immunosuppressive drugs like cyclosporine or tacrolimus to prevent rejection of kidney, heart, or liver transplants.

2. Autoimmune Diseases: It is also used to treat certain autoimmune conditions, such as lupus nephritis (kidney inflammation due to lupus) and rheumatoid arthritis, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's tissues.

Mechanism of Action:

Mycophenolic Acid works by inhibiting an enzyme called inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH), which is crucial for the production of purines. Purines are building blocks for DNA synthesis, and without them, the production of certain immune cells (like T-cells and B-cells) is inhibited. This suppression of immune cell proliferation reduces the risk of immune-mediated organ rejection in transplant patients.

Common Side Effects:

• Gastrointestinal issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain.
• Headache.
• Fatigue or weakness.
• Skin rashes or itching.
• Increased risk of infections due to suppressed immune function.

Serious Side Effects:

• Infections: Mycophenolic acid suppresses the immune system, increasing the risk of serious infections, including bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.
• Blood disorders: It can lead to low white blood cell count (leukopenia), low red blood cell count (anemia), or low platelets (thrombocytopenia), which may increase the risk of bleeding or infections.
• Liver toxicity: Mycophenolic acid can sometimes cause liver damage, so regular liver function monitoring is necessary.
• Pregnancy-related risks: It can cause birth defects, and should not be used during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. Women of childbearing age should use two forms of birth control during treatment and for 6 weeks after discontinuation.

Dosage:

The typical starting dose for IPCA MMF-S 360 mg is 1 tablet (360 mg) taken twice a day. The exact dose may be adjusted depending on the patient's response, transplant type, and other medications they may be taking. The tablets should be taken orally, usually with or without food.

Precautions:

• Pregnancy: Mycophenolic acid is contraindicated during pregnancy due to the potential for birth defects. It is essential for women of childbearing age to use two reliable methods of contraception while on this medication and for 6 weeks after treatment.
• Infections: Close monitoring is required for signs of infection, as Mycophenolic acid suppresses immune function.
• Blood counts: Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor for any blood cell count abnormalities, such as leukopenia, anemia, or thrombocytopenia.
• Liver and kidney function: As Mycophenolic acid can affect liver and kidney function, regular monitoring of these organs is recommended during treatment.

Summary:

IPCA MMF-S (Mycophenolic Acid Tablets 360 mg) is an immunosuppressive medication used primarily to prevent organ rejection in patients who have undergone kidney, heart, or liver transplants, and to treat autoimmune diseases. It works by inhibiting the production of immune cells that can attack the transplanted organ. Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues, headache, and fatigue, while more serious risks include infections, blood disorders, and liver toxicity. Mycophenolic acid is contraindicated during pregnancy and requires careful monitoring of blood counts, liver, and kidney function during treatment.