Related Experiment Videos
Update on preclinical and clinical experience with mycophenolate mofetil
1Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, Madison 53792, USA.
Transplantation Proceedings
|December 1, 1996
Summary
Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) shows promise as an immunosuppressive drug, effectively preventing and treating organ transplant rejection. Clinical trials confirm its efficacy in heart, liver, and kidney recipients.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Transplantation Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- In vitro and animal studies predicted mycophenolate mofetil's (MMF) immunosuppressive potential.
- Early trials indicated MMF's effectiveness in preventing and treating allograft rejection in various organ transplants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate MMF's efficacy and safety in preventing and treating organ transplant rejection.
- To assess MMF's role in managing allograft arteriosclerosis.
- To compare MMF with placebo and azathioprine in renal allografts.
Main Methods:
- Phase III multicenter international trials were conducted.
- MMF was administered at dosages of 2 g/d or 3 g/d.
- A specific trial utilized ATGAM induction therapy followed by triple therapy (corticosteroids, cyclosporine, MMF).
Main Results:
- MMF demonstrated significant potential as an immunosuppressive agent.
- MMF effectively prevented and treated allograft rejection in heart, liver, and kidney transplant patients.
- Phase III trials showed MMF improved immunosuppression in renal allografts compared to placebo or azathioprine.
- The ATGAM induction and triple therapy regimen proved safe and effective for acute renal allograft rejection prophylaxis.
Conclusions:
- Mycophenolate mofetil is a valuable immunosuppressive drug for organ transplantation.
- MMF can prevent and treat allograft rejection and potentially alleviate allograft arteriosclerosis.
- MMF is a safe, effective, and well-tolerated option for preventing acute renal allograft rejection.