MYCOPHENOLATE MOFETIL: 74,693 Adverse Event Reports & Safety Profile

CELLCEPT (mycophenolate mofetil) is an antimetabolite immunosuppressant. It is the 2-morpholinoethyl ester of mycophenolic acid (MPA), an immunosuppressive agent; inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH) inhibitor. The chemical name for mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is 2-morpholinoethyl (E)-6-(1,3-dihydro-4-hydroxy-6-methoxy-7-methyl-3-oxo-5-isobenzofuranyl)-4-methyl-4-hexenoate. It has an empirical formula of C 23 H 31 NO 7 , a molecular weight of 433.50, and the following structural formula: MMF is a white to off-white crystalline powder. It is slightly soluble in water (43 µg/mL at pH 7.4); the solubility increases in acidic medium (4.27 mg/mL at pH 3.6). It is freely soluble in acetone, soluble in methanol, and sparingly soluble in ethanol. The apparent partition coefficient in 1-octanol/water (pH 7.4) buffer solution is 238. The pKa values for MMF are 5.6 for the morpholino group and 8.5 for the phenolic group. MMF hydrochloride has a solubility of 65.8 mg/mL in 5% Dextrose Injection USP (D5W). The pH of the reconstituted solution is 2.4 to 4.1. CELLCEPT is available for oral administration as capsules containing 250 mg of MMF, tablets containing 500 mg of MMF, and as a powder for oral suspension which, when reconstituted, contains 200 mg/mL of MMF. Inactive ingredients in CELLCEPT 250 mg capsules include croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate, povidone (K-90) and pregelatinized starch. The capsule shells contain black iron oxide, FD&C blue #2, gelatin, red iron oxide, silicon dioxide, sodium lauryl sulfate, titanium dioxide, and yellow iron oxide. Inactive ingredients in CELLCEPT 500 mg tablets include croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone (K-90), and Opadry ® lavender Y-5R-10272-A (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, titanium dioxide, polyethylene glycol 400, FD&C Blue No. 2 aluminum lake [indigo carmine aluminum lake], and red iron oxide). Inactive ingredients in CELLCEPT Oral Suspension include aspartame, citric acid anhydrous, colloidal silicon dioxide, methylparaben, mixed fruit flavor, sodium citrate dihydrate, sorbitol, soybean lecithin, and xanthan gum.

Cellcept

Intravenous is the hydrochloride salt of MMF. The chemical name for the hydrochloride salt of MMF is 2-morpholinoethyl (E)-6-(1,3-dihydro-4-hydroxy-6-methoxy-7-methyl-3-oxo-5-isobenzofuranyl)-4-methyl-4-hexenoate hydrochloride. It has an empirical formula of C 23 H 31 NO 7 HCl and a molecular weight of 469.96.

Cellcept

Intravenous is available as a sterile white to off-white lyophilized powder in single-dose vials containing MMF hydrochloride for administration by intravenous infusion only. Each vial contains 500 mg of mycophenolate mofetil equivalent to 542 mg of mycophenolate mofetil hydrochloride. The inactive ingredients are polysorbate 80, 25 mg, and citric acid, 5 mg. Sodium hydroxide or hydrochloric acid may have been used in the manufacture of CELLCEPT Intravenous to adjust the pH. Reconstitution and dilution with 5% Dextrose Injection USP yields a slightly yellow solution of MMF, 6 mg/mL [see Dosage and Administration (2.6) ].

Chemical

Structure

AND USAGE Mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension is indicated for the prophylaxis of organ rejection, in adult and pediatric recipients 3 months of age and older of allogeneic kidney [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ] , heart [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ] or liver transplants [see Clinical Studies (14.3) ] , in combination with other immunosuppressants. Mycophenolate mofetil for oral suspension is an antimetabolite immunosuppressant indicated for the prophylaxis of organ rejection in adult and pediatric recipients 3 months of age and older of allogeneic kidney, heart or liver transplants, in combination with other immunosuppressants. (1)

AND ADMINISTRATION ADULTS DOSAGE Kidney Transplant 1 g twice daily, orally or intravenously (IV) over no less than 2 h ( 2.2 )

Heart Transplant

1.5 g twice daily orally or IV, over no less than 2 h ( 2.3 )

Liver Transplant

1.5 g twice daily orally or 1g twice daily IV over no less than 2 h ( 2.4 )

Pediatrics

Kidney Transplant 600 mg/m 2 orally twice daily, up to maximum of 2 g daily ( 2.2 )

Heart Transplant

600 mg/m 2 orally twice daily (starting dose) up to a maximum of 900 mg/m 2 twice daily (3 g or 15 mL of oral suspension) ( 2.3 )

Liver Transplant

600 mg/m 2 orally twice daily (starting dose) up to a maximum of 900 mg/m 2 twice daily (3 g or 15 mL of oral suspension) ( 2.4 )

Cellcept

Intravenous is an alternative when patients cannot tolerate oral medication. Administer within 24 hours following transplantation, until patients can tolerate oral medication, up to 14 days. ( 2.1 ) Reduce or interrupt dosing in the event of neutropenia. ( 2.5 ) See full prescribing information (FPI) for: adjustments for renal impairment and neutropenia ( 2.5 ), preparation of oral suspension and IV solution. ( 2.6 )

2.1 Important Administration Instructions CELLCEPT should not be used without the supervision of a physician with experience in immunosuppressive therapy.

Cellcept

Capsules, Tablets and Oral Suspension CELLCEPT oral dosage forms (capsules, tablets or oral suspension) should not be used interchangeably with mycophenolic acid delayed-release tablets without supervision of a physician with experience in immunosuppressive therapy because the rates of absorption following the administration of CELLCEPT oral dosage forms and mycophenolic acid delayed-release tablets are not equivalent. CELLCEPT tablets should not be crushed and CELLCEPT capsules should not be opened or crushed. Patients should avoid inhalation or contact of the skin or mucous membranes with the powder contained in CELLCEPT capsules and oral suspension. If such contact occurs, they must wash the area of contact thoroughly with soap and water. In case of ocular contact, rinse eyes with plain water. The initial oral dose of CELLCEPT should be given as soon as possible following kidney, heart or liver transplant. It is recommended that CELLCEPT be administered on an empty stomach. In stable transplant patients, however, CELLCEPT may be administered with food if necessary [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Once reconstituted, CELLCEPT Oral Suspension must not be mixed with any liquids prior to dose administration. If needed, CELLCEPT Oral Suspension can be administered via a nasogastric tube with a minimum size of 8 French (minimum 1.7 mm interior diameter). Patients should be instructed to take a missed dose as soon as they remember, except if it is closer than 2 hours to the next scheduled dose; in this case, they should continue to take CELLCEPT at the usual times.

Cellcept

Intravenous CELLCEPT Intravenous is recommended for patients unable to take oral CELLCEPT.

Cellcept

Intravenous should be administered within 24 hours following transplant.

Cellcept

Intravenous can be administered for up to 14 days; however, patients should be switched to oral CELLCEPT as soon as they can tolerate oral medication.

Cellcept

Intravenous must be reconstituted before use [see Dosage and Administration (2.6) ] .

Cellcept

Intravenous is incompatible with other intravenous infusion solutions and should not be mixed or administered concurrently via the same infusion catheter with other intravenous drugs or infusion admixtures.

Cellcept

Intravenous must not be administered as a bolus. Following reconstitution, CELLCEPT Intravenous must be administered by slow intravenous infusion over a period of no less than 2 hours by either peripheral or central vein, as rapid infusion increases the risk of local adverse reactions such as phlebitis and thrombosis [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] .

2.2 Dosage Recommendations for Kidney Transplant Patients Adults The recommended dosage for adult kidney transplant patients is 1 g orally or intravenously infused over no less than 2 hours, twice daily (total daily dose of 2 g). Pediatrics (3 months and older) Pediatric dosing is based on body surface area (BSA). The recommended dosage of CELLCEPT oral suspension for pediatric kidney transplant patients 3 months and older is 600 mg/m 2 , administered twice daily (maximum total daily dose of 2 g or 10 mL of the oral suspension). Pediatric patients with BSA ≥ 1.25 m 2 may be dosed with capsules or tablets as follows: Table 1 Pediatric Kidney Transplant: Dosage Using Capsules or Tablets Body Surface Area Dosage 1.25 m 2 to <1.5 m 2 CELLCEPT capsule 750 mg twice daily (1.5 g total daily dose) ≥ 1.5 m 2 CELLCEPT capsules or tablets 1 g twice daily (2 g total daily dose)

2.3 Dosage Recommendations for Heart Transplant Patients Adults The recommended dosage of CELLCEPT for adult heart transplant patients is 1.5 g orally or intravenously infused over no less than 2 hours administered twice daily (total daily dose of 3 g). Pediatrics (3 months and older) The recommended starting dosage of CELLCEPT oral suspension for pediatric heart transplant patients 3 months and older is 600 mg/m 2 , administered twice daily. If well tolerated, the dose can be increased to a maintenance dosage of 900 mg/m 2 twice daily (maximum total daily dose of 3 g or 15 mL of the oral suspension). The dose may be individualized based on clinical assessment. Pediatric patients with BSA ≥1.25 m 2 may be started on therapy with capsules or tablets as follows: Table 2 Pediatric Heart Transplant: Pediatric Starting Dosage Using Capsules or Tablets Body Surface Area Starting Dosage Maximum maintenance dose: 3 g total daily. 1.25 m 2 to <1.5 m 2 CELLCEPT capsule 750 mg twice daily (1.5 g total daily dose) ≥ 1.5 m 2 CELLCEPT capsules or tablets 1 g twice daily (2 g total daily dose)

2.4 Dosage Recommendations for Liver Transplant Patients Adults The recommended dosage of CELLCEPT for adult liver transplant patients is 1.5 g administered orally twice daily (total daily dose of 3 g) or 1 g infused intravenously over no less than 2 hours, twice daily (total daily dose of 2 g). Pediatrics (3 months and older) The recommended starting dosage of CELLCEPT oral suspension for pediatric liver transplant patients 3 months of age and older is 600 mg/m 2 , administered twice daily. If well tolerated, the dose can be increased to a maintenance dosage of 900 mg/m 2 twice daily (maximum total daily dose of 3 g or 15 mL of the oral suspension). The dose may be individualized based on clinical assessment. Pediatric patients with BSA ≥1.25 m 2 may be started on therapy with capsules or tablets as follows: Table 3 Pediatric Liver Transplant: Pediatric Starting Dosage Using Capsules or Tablets Body Surface Area Starting Dosage Maximum maintenance dose: 3 g total daily. 1.25 m 2 to <1.5 m 2 CELLCEPT capsule 750 mg twice daily (1.5 g total daily dose) ≥ 1.5 m 2 CELLCEPT capsules or tablets 1 g twice daily (2 g total daily dose)

2.5 Dosage Modifications: Patients with Renal Impairment, Neutropenia Renal Impairment No dosage modifications are needed in kidney transplant patients with delayed graft function postoperatively <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]</span> . In kidney transplant patients with severe chronic impairment of the graft (GFR &lt;25 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ), do not administer doses of CELLCEPT greater than 1 g twice a day. These patients should be carefully monitored <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]</span>. Neutropenia If neutropenia develops (ANC &lt;1.3 × 10 3 /µL), dosing with CELLCEPT should be interrupted or reduced, appropriate diagnostic tests performed, and the patient managed appropriately <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) and Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]</span>.

2.6 Preparation Instructions of Oral Suspension and Intravenous for Pharmacists General Preparation Instructions Before Handling the Formulations Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) has demonstrated teratogenic effects in humans. Follow applicable special handling and disposal procedures 1 <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) , Adverse Reactions (6.2) , Use in Specific Populations (8.1 , 8.3) , How Supplied/Storage and Handling (16.1) ]</span>. Care should be taken to avoid inhalation or direct contact with skin or mucous membranes of the dry powder or the constituted suspension because MMF has demonstrated teratogenic effects in humans . Wearing disposable gloves is recommended during reconstitution and when wiping the outer surface of the bottle/cap and the table surface after reconstitution. If such contact occurs, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water; rinse eyes with water. Alert patients that they and others should also avoid inhalation or contact of the skin or mucous membranes with the oral suspension. Advise them to wash the area thoroughly with soap and water if such contact occurs; if ocular contact occurs, rinse eyes with plain water.

Cellcept

Oral Suspension CELLCEPT Oral Suspension must be reconstituted by the pharmacist prior to dispensing to the patient.

Cellcept

Oral Suspension should not be mixed with any other medication. After reconstitution, the oral suspension contains 200 mg/mL MMF. Before proceeding with the reconstitution steps read the general preparation instructions above [see General Preparation Instructions Before Handling the Formulations ]. The following are the steps for reconstitution: Tap the closed bottle several times to loosen the powder.

Measure

94 mL of water in a graduated cylinder. Add approximately half the total amount of water for reconstitution to the bottle and shake the closed bottle well for about 1 minute. Add the remainder of water and shake the closed bottle well for about 1 minute. Remove the child-resistant cap and push bottle adapter into neck of bottle. Close bottle with child-resistant cap tightly. This will assure the proper seating of the bottle adapter in the bottle and child-resistant status of the cap. Write the date of expiration of the constituted suspension on the bottle label. (The shelf-life of the constituted suspension is 60 days.) Dispense with the "Instruction for Use" and oral dispensers. Alert patients to read the important handling information described in the instructions for use. Store reconstituted suspension at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Storage in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) is acceptable. Do not freeze. Discard any unused portion 60 days after constitution.

Cellcept

Intravenous Before proceeding with the preparation steps for CELLCEPT Intravenous read the general preparation instructions [see General Preparation Instructions Before Handling the Formulations ] and note the following: CELLCEPT Intravenous does not contain an antibacterial preservative; therefore, reconstitution and dilution of the product must be performed under aseptic conditions. This product is sealed under vacuum and should retain a vacuum throughout its shelf life. If a lack of vacuum in the vial is noted while adding the diluent, the vial should not be used.

Cellcept

Intravenous must be reconstituted and further diluted. A detailed description of the preparation is given below.

Table

4 Preparation Instructions of CELLCEPT Intravenous for Pharmacists Preparation of the 1g dose Reconstitute two (2) vials of CELLCEPT Intravenous by injecting 14 mL of 5% Dextrose Injection USP into each vial. Gently shake the vial to dissolve the drug. Inspect the resulting slightly yellow solution for particulate matter and discoloration prior to further dilution. Discard the vials if particulate matter or discoloration is observed. Dilute the contents of the two reconstituted vials (approximately 2 × 15 mL) into 140 mL of 5% Dextrose Injection USP. Inspect the resulting infusion solution and discard if particulate matter or discoloration is observed. Preparation of the 1.5 g dose Reconstitute three (3) vials of CELLCEPT Intravenous by injecting 14 mL of 5% Dextrose Injection USP into each vial. Gently shake the vial to dissolve the drug. Inspect the resulting slightly yellow solution for particulate matter and discoloration prior to further dilution. Discard the vials if particulate matter or discoloration is observed. Dilute the contents of the three reconstituted vials (approximately 3 × 15 mL) into 210 mL of 5% Dextrose Injection USP. Inspect the resulting infusion solution and discard if particulate matter or discoloration is observed. The administration of the infusion should be initiated within 4 hours of reconstitution and dilution of the drug product. Keep solutions at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Discard unused portion of the reconstituted solutions.

Cellcept

Injection should not be mixed or administered concurrently via the same infusion catheter with other intravenous drugs or infusion admixtures.

Mycophenolate mofetil for injection is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity, including anaphylaxis, to mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), mycophenolic acid (MPA) or any component of the drug product [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ]. Mycophenolate mofetil for injection is contraindicated in patients who are allergic to Polysorbate 80 (TWEEN). History of hypersensitivity, including anaphylaxis, to mycophenolate mofetil, mycophenolic acid or any component of the drug product (4) Patients allergic to Polysorbate 80 (present in mycophenolate mofetil for injection). (4)

REACTIONS The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the label: Embryofetal Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Lymphomas and Other Malignancies [see Warnings and Precautions 5.2)]

Serious

Infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]

Blood

Dyscrasias: Neutropenia, Pure Red Cell Aplasia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]

Gastrointestinal

Complications [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]

Acute Inflammatory Syndrome

Associated with Mycophenolate Products [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]

Hypersensitivity

Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)] The most common adverse reactions in clinical trials (20 % or greater) include diarrhea, leukopenia, infection, vomiting, and there is evidence of a higher frequency of certain types of infections e.g., opportunistic infection. (6.1) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Emprise Pharma, LLC at the toll free number 610-357-4415 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.com

6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. An estimated total of 1557 patients received mycophenolate mofetil during pivotal clinical trials in the prevention of acute organ rejection. Of these, 991 were included in the three renal studies, 277 were included in one hepatic study, and 289 were included in one cardiac study. Patients in all study arms also received cyclosporine and corticosteroids. The data described below primarily derive from five randomized, active-controlled double-blind 12-month trials of mycophenolate mofetil in de novokidney (3) heart (1) and liver (1) transplant patients <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Clinical Studies (14.1, 14.2 and 14.3)]</span>. Mycophenolate mofetil Oral The incidence of adverse reactions for mycophenolate mofetil was determined in five randomized, comparative, double-blind trials in the prevention of rejection in kidney, heart and liver transplant patients (two active-and one placebo-controlled trials, one active-controlled trial, and one active-controlled trial, respectively) <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Clinical Studies (14.1, 14.2 and 14.3)]</span>. The three de novokidney studies with 12-month duration compared two dose levels of oral mycophenolate mofetil (1 g twice daily and 1.5 g twice daily) with azathioprine (2 studies) or placebo (1 study) when administered in combination with cyclosporine (Sandimmune®) and corticosteroids to prevent acute rejection episodes. One study also included anti-thymocyte globulin (ATGAM®) induction therapy. In the de novoheart transplantation study with 12-month duration, patients received mycophenolate mofetil 1.5 g twice daily (n=289) or azathioprine 1.5 to 3 mg/kg/day (n=289), in combination with cyclosporine (Sandimmune® or Neoral®) and corticosteroids as maintenance immunosuppressive therapy. In the de novoliver transplantation study with 12-month duration, patients received mycophenolate mofetil 1 g twice daily intravenously for up to 14 days followed by mycophenolate mofetil 1.5 g twice daily orally or azathioprine 1 to 2 mg/kg/day intravenously followed by azathioprine 1 to 2 mg/kg/day orally, in combination with cyclosporine (Neoral®) and corticosteroids as maintenance immunosuppressive therapy. The total number of patients enrolled was 565.

Approximately

53% of the kidney transplant patients, 65% of the heart transplant patients, and 48% of the liver transplant patients were treated for more than 1 year. Adverse reactions reported in ≥ 20% of patients in the mycophenolate mofetil treatment groups are presented below. The safety data of three kidney transplantation studies are pooled together.

Table

5: Adverse Reactions in Controlled Studies of De Novo Kidney, Heart or Liver Transplantation Reported in ≥20% of Patients in the Mycophenolate Mofetil Group Adverse drug Reaction (MedDRA)

System Organ Class Kidney Studies

Heart Study Liver Study Mycophenolate mofetil AZA Placebo Mycophenolate mofetil AZA Mycophenolate mofetil AZA 2g/day (n=501) or 3g/day (n=490) 1 to 2 mg/kg/day or 100 to 150 mg/day 3g/day 1.5 to 3 mg/kg/day 3g/day 1 to 2 mg/kg/day (n=991) (n=326) (n=166) (n=289) (n=289) (n=277) (n=287) % % % % % % % Infections and infestations Bacterial infections 39.9 33.7 37.3 - - 27.4

26.5 Viral infections - * - - 31.1 24.9 - - Blood and lymphatic system disorders Anemia 20.0 23.6 2.4 45.0 47.1 43.0

53.0 Ecchymosis - - - 20.1 9.7 - - Leukocytosis - - - 42.6 37.4 22.4

21.3 Leukopenia 28.6 24.8 4.2 34.3 43.3 45.8

39.0 Thrombocytopenia - - - 24.2 28.0 38.3

42.2 Metabolism and nutrition disorders Hypercholesterolemia - - - 46.0 43.9 - - Hyperglycemia - - - 48.4 53.3 43.7

48.8 Hyperkalemia - - - - - 22.0

23.7 Hypocalcemia - - - - - 30.0

30.0 Hypokalemia - - - 32.5 26.3 37.2

41.1 Hypomagnesemia - - - 20.1 14.2 39.0

37.6 Psychiatric disorders Depression - - - 20.1 15.2 - - Insomnia - - - 43.3 39.8 52.3

47.0 Nervous system disorders Dizziness - - - 34.3 33.9 - - Headache - - - 58.5 55.4 53.8

49.1 Tremor - - - 26.3 25.6 33.9

35.5 Cardiac disorders Tachycardia - - - 22.8 21.8 22.0

15.7 Vascular disorders Hypertension 27.5 32.2 19.3 78.9 74.0 62.1

59.6 Hypotension - - - 34.3 40.1 - - Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders Cough - - - 40.5 32.2 - - Dyspnea - - - 44.3 44.3 31.0

30.3 Pleural effusion - - - - - 34.3

35.9 Gastrointestinal disorders Abdominal pain 22.4 23.0 11.4 41.9 39.4 62.5

51.2 Constipation - - - 43.6 38.8 37.9

38.3 Decreased appetite - - - - - 25.3

17.1 Diarrhea 30.4 20.9 13.9 52.6 39. 51.3

49.8 Dyspepsia - - - 22.1 22.1 22.4

20.9 Nausea - - - 56.1 60.2 54.5

51.2 Vomiting - - - 39.1 34.6 32.9

33.4 Hepatobiliary disorders Blood lactate dehydrogenase increased - - - 23.5 18.3 - - Hepatic enzyme increased - - - - - 24.9

19.2 Skin and subcutaneous tissues disorders Ras - - - 26.0 20.8 - - Renal and urinary disorders Blood creatinine increased - - - 42.2 39.8 - - Blood urea increased - - - 36.7 34.3 - - General disorders and administration site conditions Asthenia - - - 49.1 41.2 35.4

33.8 Edema † 21.0 28.2 8.4 67.5 55.7 48.4

47.7 Pain ‡ 24.8 32.2 9.6 79.2 77.5 74.0

77.5 Pyrexia - - - 56.4 53.6 52.3 56.1 * “-” Indicates that the incidence was below the cutoff value of 20% for inclusion in the table. † “Edema” includes peripheral edema, facial edema, scrotal edema. ‡ “Pain” includes musculoskeletal pain (myalgia, neck pain, back pain). In the three de novokidney studies, patients receiving 2 g/day of mycophenolate mofetil had an overall better safety profile than did patients receiving 3 g/day of mycophenolate mofetil. Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD, pseudolymphoma) developed in 0.4% to 1% of patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil (2 g or 3 g daily) with other immunosuppressive agents in controlled clinical trials of kidney, heart and liver transplant patients followed for at least 1 year <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]</span>. Non-melanoma skin carcinomas occurred in 1.6% to 4.2% of patients, other types of malignancy in 0.7% to 2.1% of patients. Three-year safety data in kidney and heart transplant patients did not reveal any unexpected changes in incidence of malignancy compared to the 1-year data. In pediatric patients, PTLD was observed in 1.35% (2/148) by 12 months post-transplant. Cytopenias, including leukopenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia and pancytopenia are a known risk associated with mycophenolate and may lead or contribute to the occurrence of infections and hemorrhages <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]</span>. Severe neutropenia (ANC &lt;0.5 x 10 3 /μL) developed in up to 2% of kidney transplant patients, up to 2.8% of heart transplant patients and up to 3.6% of liver transplant patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil 3 g daily <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) and Dosage and Administration (2.5)]</span>. The most common opportunistic infections in patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil with other immunosuppressants were mucocutaneous candida, CMV viremia/syndrome, and herpes simplex. The proportion of patients with CMV viremia/syndrome was 13.5%. In patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil (2 g or 3 g) in controlled studies for prevention of kidney, heart or liver rejection, fatal infection/sepsis occurred in approximately 2% of kidney and heart patients and in 5% of liver patients <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]</span>. The most serious gastrointestinal disorders reported were ulceration and hemorrhage, which are known risks associated with mycophenolate mofetil. Mouth, esophageal, gastric, duodenal, and intestinal ulcers often complicated by hemorrhage, as well as hematemesis, melena, and hemorrhagic forms of gastritis and colitis were commonly reported during the pivotal clinical trials, while the most common gastrointestinal disorders were diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Endoscopic investigation of patients with mycophenolate mofetil -related diarrhea revealed isolated cases of intestinal villous atrophy <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]</span>. The following adverse reactions were reported with 3% to&lt;20% incidence in kidney, heart, and liver transplant patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil, in combination with cyclosporine and corticosteroids.

Table

6 Adverse Reactions in Controlled Studies of De Novo Kidney, Heart or Liver Transplantation Reported in 3% to <20% of Patients Treated with Mycophenolate Mofetil in Combination with Cyclosporine and Corticosteroids System Organ Class Adverse Reactions Body as a Whole cellulitis, chills, hernia, malaise Infections and Infestations fungal infections Hematologic and Lymphatic coagulation disorder, ecchymosis, pancytopenia Urogenital hematuria Cardiovascular hypotension Metabolic and Nutritional acidosis, alkaline phosphatase increased, hyperlipemia, hypophosphatemia, weight loss Digestive esophagitis, flatulence, gastritis, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, hepatitis, ileus, nausea and vomiting, stomach ulcer, stomatitis Neoplasm benign, malignant and unspecified neoplasm Skin and Appendages skin benign neoplasm, skin carcinoma Psychiatric confusional state Nervous hypertonia, paresthesia, somnolence Musculoskeletal arthralgia, myasthenia Pediatric Study The type and frequency of adverse events in a clinical study for prevention of kidney allograft rejection in 100 pediatric patients 3 months to 18 years of age dosed with CELLCEPT oral suspension 600 mg/m 2 twice daily (up to 1 g twice daily) were generally similar to those observed in adult patients dosed with CELLCEPT capsules at a dose of 1 g twice daily with the exception of abdominal pain, fever, infection, pain, sepsis, diarrhea, vomiting, pharyngitis, respiratory tract infection, hypertension, leukopenia, and anemia, which were observed in a higher proportion in pediatric patients.

Geriatrics

Elderly patients (≥65 years), particularly those who are receiving mycophenolate mofetil as part of a combination immunosuppressive regimen, may be at increased risk of certain infections (including cytomegalovirus [CMV] tissue invasive disease) and possibly gastrointestinal hemorrhage and pulmonary edema, compared to younger individuals [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) and Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of mycophenolate mofetil. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure: Embryo-Fetal Toxicity : Congenital malformations and spontaneous abortions, mainly in the first trimester, have been reported following exposure to mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in combination with other immunosuppressants during pregnancy <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.1), and Use in Specific Populations (8.1), (8.3)]</span>. Congenital malformations include: -Facial malformations: cleft lip, cleft palate, micrognathia, hypertelorism of the orbits -Abnormalities of the ear and eye: abnormally formed or absent external/middle ear, coloboma, microphthalmos -Malformations of the fingers: polydactyly, syndactyly, brachydactyly -Cardiac abnormalities: atrial and ventricular septal defects -Esophageal malformations: esophageal atresia -Nervous system malformations: such as spina bifida. Cardiovascular : Venous thrombosis has been reported in patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil administered intravenously. Digestive : Colitis, pancreatitis General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions : Venous thrombosis has been reported in patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil administered intravenously. Hematologic and Lymphatic : Bone marrow failure, cases of pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) and hypogammaglobulinemia have been reported in patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil in combination with other immunosuppressive agents <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]</span>. Immune : Hypersensitivity, hypogammaglobinemia. Infections : Meningitis, infectious endocarditis, tuberculosis, atypical mycobacterial infection, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, BK virus infection, viral reactivation of hepatitis B and hepatitis C, protozoal infections <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]</span> . Respiratory : Bronchiectasis, interstitial lung disease, fatal pulmonary fibrosis, have been reported rarely and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pulmonary symptoms ranging from dyspnea to respiratory failure in post-transplant patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil. Vascular : Lymphocele

6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. An estimated total of 1557 patients received mycophenolate mofetil during pivotal clinical trials in the prevention of acute organ rejection. Of these, 991 were included in the three renal studies, 277 were included in one hepatic study, and 289 were included in one cardiac study. Patients in all study arms also received cyclosporine and corticosteroids. The data described below primarily derive from five randomized, active-controlled double-blind 12-month trials of mycophenolate mofetil in de novokidney (3) heart (1) and liver (1) transplant patients <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Clinical Studies (14.1, 14.2 and 14.3)]</span>. Mycophenolate mofetil Oral The incidence of adverse reactions for mycophenolate mofetil was determined in five randomized, comparative, double-blind trials in the prevention of rejection in kidney, heart and liver transplant patients (two active-and one placebo-controlled trials, one active-controlled trial, and one active-controlled trial, respectively) <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Clinical Studies (14.1, 14.2 and 14.3)]</span>. The three de novokidney studies with 12-month duration compared two dose levels of oral mycophenolate mofetil (1 g twice daily and 1.5 g twice daily) with azathioprine (2 studies) or placebo (1 study) when administered in combination with cyclosporine (Sandimmune®) and corticosteroids to prevent acute rejection episodes. One study also included anti-thymocyte globulin (ATGAM®) induction therapy. In the de novoheart transplantation study with 12-month duration, patients received mycophenolate mofetil 1.5 g twice daily (n=289) or azathioprine 1.5 to 3 mg/kg/day (n=289), in combination with cyclosporine (Sandimmune® or Neoral®) and corticosteroids as maintenance immunosuppressive therapy. In the de novoliver transplantation study with 12-month duration, patients received mycophenolate mofetil 1 g twice daily intravenously for up to 14 days followed by mycophenolate mofetil 1.5 g twice daily orally or azathioprine 1 to 2 mg/kg/day intravenously followed by azathioprine 1 to 2 mg/kg/day orally, in combination with cyclosporine (Neoral®) and corticosteroids as maintenance immunosuppressive therapy. The total number of patients enrolled was 565.

Approximately

53% of the kidney transplant patients, 65% of the heart transplant patients, and 48% of the liver transplant patients were treated for more than 1 year. Adverse reactions reported in ≥ 20% of patients in the mycophenolate mofetil treatment groups are presented below. The safety data of three kidney transplantation studies are pooled together.

Table

5: Adverse Reactions in Controlled Studies of De Novo Kidney, Heart or Liver Transplantation Reported in ≥20% of Patients in the Mycophenolate Mofetil Group Adverse drug Reaction (MedDRA)

System Organ Class Kidney Studies

Heart Study Liver Study Mycophenolate mofetil AZA Placebo Mycophenolate mofetil AZA Mycophenolate mofetil AZA 2g/day (n=501) or 3g/day (n=490) 1 to 2 mg/kg/day or 100 to 150 mg/day 3g/day 1.5 to 3 mg/kg/day 3g/day 1 to 2 mg/kg/day (n=991) (n=326) (n=166) (n=289) (n=289) (n=277) (n=287) % % % % % % % Infections and infestations Bacterial infections 39.9 33.7 37.3 - - 27.4

26.5 Viral infections - * - - 31.1 24.9 - - Blood and lymphatic system disorders Anemia 20.0 23.6 2.4 45.0 47.1 43.0

53.0 Ecchymosis - - - 20.1 9.7 - - Leukocytosis - - - 42.6 37.4 22.4

21.3 Leukopenia 28.6 24.8 4.2 34.3 43.3 45.8

39.0 Thrombocytopenia - - - 24.2 28.0 38.3

42.2 Metabolism and nutrition disorders Hypercholesterolemia - - - 46.0 43.9 - - Hyperglycemia - - - 48.4 53.3 43.7

48.8 Hyperkalemia - - - - - 22.0

23.7 Hypocalcemia - - - - - 30.0

30.0 Hypokalemia - - - 32.5 26.3 37.2

41.1 Hypomagnesemia - - - 20.1 14.2 39.0

37.6 Psychiatric disorders Depression - - - 20.1 15.2 - - Insomnia - - - 43.3 39.8 52.3

47.0 Nervous system disorders Dizziness - - - 34.3 33.9 - - Headache - - - 58.5 55.4 53.8

49.1 Tremor - - - 26.3 25.6 33.9

35.5 Cardiac disorders Tachycardia - - - 22.8 21.8 22.0

15.7 Vascular disorders Hypertension 27.5 32.2 19.3 78.9 74.0 62.1

59.6 Hypotension - - - 34.3 40.1 - - Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders Cough - - - 40.5 32.2 - - Dyspnea - - - 44.3 44.3 31.0

30.3 Pleural effusion - - - - - 34.3

35.9 Gastrointestinal disorders Abdominal pain 22.4 23.0 11.4 41.9 39.4 62.5

51.2 Constipation - - - 43.6 38.8 37.9

38.3 Decreased appetite - - - - - 25.3

17.1 Diarrhea 30.4 20.9 13.9 52.6 39. 51.3

49.8 Dyspepsia - - - 22.1 22.1 22.4

20.9 Nausea - - - 56.1 60.2 54.5

51.2 Vomiting - - - 39.1 34.6 32.9

33.4 Hepatobiliary disorders Blood lactate dehydrogenase increased - - - 23.5 18.3 - - Hepatic enzyme increased - - - - - 24.9

19.2 Skin and subcutaneous tissues disorders Ras - - - 26.0 20.8 - - Renal and urinary disorders Blood creatinine increased - - - 42.2 39.8 - - Blood urea increased - - - 36.7 34.3 - - General disorders and administration site conditions Asthenia - - - 49.1 41.2 35.4

33.8 Edema † 21.0 28.2 8.4 67.5 55.7 48.4

47.7 Pain ‡ 24.8 32.2 9.6 79.2 77.5 74.0

77.5 Pyrexia - - - 56.4 53.6 52.3 56.1 * “-” Indicates that the incidence was below the cutoff value of 20% for inclusion in the table. † “Edema” includes peripheral edema, facial edema, scrotal edema. ‡ “Pain” includes musculoskeletal pain (myalgia, neck pain, back pain). In the three de novokidney studies, patients receiving 2 g/day of mycophenolate mofetil had an overall better safety profile than did patients receiving 3 g/day of mycophenolate mofetil. Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD, pseudolymphoma) developed in 0.4% to 1% of patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil (2 g or 3 g daily) with other immunosuppressive agents in controlled clinical trials of kidney, heart and liver transplant patients followed for at least 1 year <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]</span>. Non-melanoma skin carcinomas occurred in 1.6% to 4.2% of patients, other types of malignancy in 0.7% to 2.1% of patients. Three-year safety data in kidney and heart transplant patients did not reveal any unexpected changes in incidence of malignancy compared to the 1-year data. In pediatric patients, PTLD was observed in 1.35% (2/148) by 12 months post-transplant. Cytopenias, including leukopenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia and pancytopenia are a known risk associated with mycophenolate and may lead or contribute to the occurrence of infections and hemorrhages <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]</span>. Severe neutropenia (ANC &lt;0.5 x 10 3 /μL) developed in up to 2% of kidney transplant patients, up to 2.8% of heart transplant patients and up to 3.6% of liver transplant patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil 3 g daily <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) and Dosage and Administration (2.5)]</span>. The most common opportunistic infections in patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil with other immunosuppressants were mucocutaneous candida, CMV viremia/syndrome, and herpes simplex. The proportion of patients with CMV viremia/syndrome was 13.5%. In patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil (2 g or 3 g) in controlled studies for prevention of kidney, heart or liver rejection, fatal infection/sepsis occurred in approximately 2% of kidney and heart patients and in 5% of liver patients <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]</span>. The most serious gastrointestinal disorders reported were ulceration and hemorrhage, which are known risks associated with mycophenolate mofetil. Mouth, esophageal, gastric, duodenal, and intestinal ulcers often complicated by hemorrhage, as well as hematemesis, melena, and hemorrhagic forms of gastritis and colitis were commonly reported during the pivotal clinical trials, while the most common gastrointestinal disorders were diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Endoscopic investigation of patients with mycophenolate mofetil -related diarrhea revealed isolated cases of intestinal villous atrophy <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]</span>. The following adverse reactions were reported with 3% to&lt;20% incidence in kidney, heart, and liver transplant patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil, in combination with cyclosporine and corticosteroids.

Table

6 Adverse Reactions in Controlled Studies of De Novo Kidney, Heart or Liver Transplantation Reported in 3% to <20% of Patients Treated with Mycophenolate Mofetil in Combination with Cyclosporine and Corticosteroids System Organ Class Adverse Reactions Body as a Whole cellulitis, chills, hernia, malaise Infections and Infestations fungal infections Hematologic and Lymphatic coagulation disorder, ecchymosis, pancytopenia Urogenital hematuria Cardiovascular hypotension Metabolic and Nutritional acidosis, alkaline phosphatase increased, hyperlipemia, hypophosphatemia, weight loss Digestive esophagitis, flatulence, gastritis, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, hepatitis, ileus, nausea and vomiting, stomach ulcer, stomatitis Neoplasm benign, malignant and unspecified neoplasm Skin and Appendages skin benign neoplasm, skin carcinoma Psychiatric confusional state Nervous hypertonia, paresthesia, somnolence Musculoskeletal arthralgia, myasthenia Pediatric Study The type and frequency of adverse events in a clinical study for prevention of kidney allograft rejection in 100 pediatric patients 3 months to 18 years of age dosed with CELLCEPT oral suspension 600 mg/m 2 twice daily (up to 1 g twice daily) were generally similar to those observed in adult patients dosed with CELLCEPT capsules at a dose of 1 g twice daily with the exception of abdominal pain, fever, infection, pain, sepsis, diarrhea, vomiting, pharyngitis, respiratory tract infection, hypertension, leukopenia, and anemia, which were observed in a higher proportion in pediatric patients.

Geriatrics

Elderly patients (≥65 years), particularly those who are receiving mycophenolate mofetil as part of a combination immunosuppressive regimen, may be at increased risk of certain infections (including cytomegalovirus [CMV] tissue invasive disease) and possibly gastrointestinal hemorrhage and pulmonary edema, compared to younger individuals [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) and Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of mycophenolate mofetil. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure: Embryo-Fetal Toxicity : Congenital malformations and spontaneous abortions, mainly in the first trimester, have been reported following exposure to mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in combination with other immunosuppressants during pregnancy <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.1), and Use in Specific Populations (8.1), (8.3)]</span>. Congenital malformations include: -Facial malformations: cleft lip, cleft palate, micrognathia, hypertelorism of the orbits -Abnormalities of the ear and eye: abnormally formed or absent external/middle ear, coloboma, microphthalmos -Malformations of the fingers: polydactyly, syndactyly, brachydactyly -Cardiac abnormalities: atrial and ventricular septal defects -Esophageal malformations: esophageal atresia -Nervous system malformations: such as spina bifida. Cardiovascular : Venous thrombosis has been reported in patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil administered intravenously. Digestive : Colitis, pancreatitis General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions : Venous thrombosis has been reported in patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil administered intravenously. Hematologic and Lymphatic : Bone marrow failure, cases of pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) and hypogammaglobulinemia have been reported in patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil in combination with other immunosuppressive agents <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]</span>. Immune : Hypersensitivity, hypogammaglobinemia. Infections : Meningitis, infectious endocarditis, tuberculosis, atypical mycobacterial infection, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, BK virus infection, viral reactivation of hepatitis B and hepatitis C, protozoal infections <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]</span> . Respiratory : Bronchiectasis, interstitial lung disease, fatal pulmonary fibrosis, have been reported rarely and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pulmonary symptoms ranging from dyspnea to respiratory failure in post-transplant patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil. Vascular : Lymphocele

AND PRECAUTIONS Blood Dyscrasias (Neutropenia, Red Blood Cell Aplasia): Monitor with blood tests; consider treatment interruption or dose reduction. (5.4)

Gastrointestinal

Complications: Monitor for complications such as bleeding, ulceration and perforations, particularly in patients with underlying gastrointestinal disorders. (5.5) Hypoxanthine-Guanine Phosphoribosyl-Transferase Deficiency: Avoid use of mycophenolate mofetil. (5.6)

Acute Inflammatory Syndrome

Associated with Mycophenolate Products: Monitor for this paradoxical inflammatory reaction. (5.7)

Hypersensitivity

Reactions: Discontinue Mycophenolate mofetil; treat and monitor until signs and symptoms resolve. (5.8) Immunizations: Avoid live attenuated vaccines. (5.9)

Blood

Donation: Avoid during therapy and for 6 weeks thereafter. (5.12)

Semen

Donation: Avoid during therapy and for 90 days thereafter. (5.13)

Potential

Impairment on Driving and Use of Machinery: Mycophenolate mofetil may affect ability to drive or operate machinery. (5.15)

5.1 Embryofetal Toxicity Use of MMF during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of first trimester pregnancy loss and an increased risk of congenital malformations, especially external ear and other facial abnormalities including cleft lip and palate, and anomalies of the distal limbs, heart, esophagus, kidney and nervous system. Females of reproductive potential must be made aware of these risks and must be counseled regarding pregnancy prevention and planning. Avoid use of MMF during pregnancy if safer treatment options are available <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3)]</span> .

5.2 Lymphoma and Other Malignancies Patients receiving immunosuppressant, including mycophenolate mofetil, are at increased risk of developing lymphomas and other malignancies, particularly of the skin <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]</span> . The risk appears to be related to the intensity and duration of immunosuppression rather than to the use of any specific agent. For patients with increased risk for skin cancer, exposure to sunlight and UV light should be limited by wearing protective clothing and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high protection factor. Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) developed in 0.4% to 1% of patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil (2 g or 3 g) with other immunosuppressive agents in controlled clinical trials of kidney, heart, and liver transplant patients <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]</span> . The majority of PTLD cases appear to be related to Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) infection. The risk of PTLD appears greatest in those individuals who are EBV seronegative, a population which includes many young children. In pediatric patients, no other malignancies besides PTLD were observed in clinical trials <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]</span>.

5.3 Serious Infections Patients receiving immunosuppressants, including mycophenolate mofetil, are at increased risk of developing bacterial, fungal, protozoal and new or reactivated viral infections, including opportunistic infections. The risk increases with the total immunosuppressive load. These infections may lead to serious outcomes, including hospitalizations and death <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.1), (6.2)]</span>. Serious viral infections reported include: Polyomavirus-associated nephropathy (PVAN), especially due to BK virus infection JC virus-associated progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), and Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections: CMV seronegative transplant patients who receive an organ from a CMV seropositive donor are at highest risk of CMV viremia and CMV disease. Viral reactivation in patients infected with Hepatitis B and C COVID-19 Consider reducing immunosuppression in patients who develop new infections or reactivate viral infections, weighing the risk that reduced immunosuppression represents to the functioning allograft. PVAN, especially due to BK virus infection, is associated with serious outcomes, including deteriorating renal function and renal graft loss <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]</span>. Patient monitoring may help detect patients at risk for PVAN. PML, which is sometimes fatal, commonly presents with hemiparesis, apathy, confusion, cognitive deficiencies, and ataxia <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]</span>. In immunosuppressed patients, physicians should consider PML in the differential diagnosis in patients reporting neurological symptoms. The risk of CMV viremia and CMV disease is highest among transplant recipients seronegative for CMV at time of transplant who receive a graft from a CMV seropositive donor. Therapeutic approaches to limiting CMV disease exist and should be routinely provided. Patient monitoring may help detect patients at risk for CMV disease. Viral reactivation has been reported in patients infected with HBV or HCV. Monitoring infected patients for clinical and laboratory signs of active HBV or HCV infection is recommended.

5.4 Blood Dyscrasias: Neutropenia and Pure Red Cell Aplasia (PRCA) Severe neutropenia [absolute neutrophil count (ANC) &lt;0.5 x 10 3 /μL] developed in transplant patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil 3 g daily <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]</span> . Patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil should be monitored for neutropenia. Neutropenia has been observed most frequently in the period from 31 to 180 days post-transplant in patients treated for prevention of kidney, heart and liver rejection. The development of neutropenia may be related to mycophenolate mofetil itself, concomitant medications, viral infections, or a combination of these causes. If neutropenia develops (ANC &lt;1.3 x 10 3 /μL), dosing with mycophenolate mofetil should be interrupted or the dose reduced, appropriate diagnostic tests performed, and the patient managed appropriately <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Dosage and Administration (2.5)]</span>. Patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil should be instructed to report immediately any evidence of infection, unexpected bruising, bleeding or any other manifestation of bone marrow depression. Consider monitoring with complete blood counts weekly for the first month, twice monthly for the second and third months, and monthly for the remainder of the first year. Cases of pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) have been reported in patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil in combination with other immunosuppressive agents. In some cases, PRCA was found to be reversible with dose reduction or cessation of mycophenolate mofetil therapy. In transplant patients, however, reduced immunosuppression may place the graft at risk.

5.5 Gastrointestinal Complications Gastrointestinal bleeding requiring hospitalization, ulceration and perforations were observed in clinical trials. Physicians should be aware of these serious adverse effects particularly when administering mycophenolate mofetil to patients with a gastrointestinal disease.

5.6 Patients with Hypoxanthine-Guanine Phosphoribosyl-Transferase Deficiency (HGPRT) Mycophenolate mofetil is an inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH) inhibitor; therefore it should be avoided in patients with hereditary deficiencies of hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyl - transferase (HGPRT) such as Lesch-Nyhan and Kelley-Seegmiller syndromes because it may cause an exacerbation of disease symptoms characterized by the overproduction and accumulation of uric acid leading to symptoms associated with gout such as acute arthritis, tophi, nephrolithiasis or urolithiasis and renal disease including renal failure.

5.7 Acute Inflammatory Syndrome Associated with Mycophenolate Products Acute inflammatory syndrome (AIS) has been reported with the use of MMF and mycophenolate products, and some cases have resulted in hospitalization. AIS is a paradoxical pro-inflammatory reaction characterized by fever, arthralgias, arthritis, muscle pain and elevated inflammatory markers including, C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate, without evidence of infection or underlying disease recurrence. Symptoms occur within weeks to months of initiation of treatment or a dose increase. After discontinuation, improvement of symptoms and inflammatory markers are usually observed within 24 to 48 hours. Monitor patients for symptoms and laboratory parameters of AIS when starting treatment with mycophenolate products or when increasing the dosage. Discontinue treatment and consider other treatment alternatives based on the risk and benefit for the patient.

5.8 Hypersensitivity Reactions Postmarketing cases of hypersensitivity reactions, including angioedema and anaphylaxis, have been reported with mycophenolate mofetil. These reactions generally occurred within hours to the next day after initiating mycophenolate mofetil. If signs or symptoms of hypersensitivity reaction occur, discontinue mycophenolate mofetil; treat and monitor until symptoms resolve <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Contraindications (4)]</span>.

5.9 Immunizations During treatment with mycophenolate mofetil, the use of live attenuated vaccines should be avoided (e.g., intranasal influenza, measles, mumps, rubella, oral polio, BCG, yellow fever, varicella, and TY21a typhoid vaccines)and patients should be advised that vaccinations may be less effective. Advise patients to discuss with the physician before seeking any immunizations.

5.12 Blood Donation Patients should not donate blood during therapy and for at least 6 weeks following discontinuation of mycophenolate mofetil because their blood or blood products might be administered to a female of reproductive potential or a pregnant woman.

5.13 Semen Donation Based on animal data, men should not donate semen during therapy and for 90 days following discontinuation of mycophenolate mofetil <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Use In Specific Populations (8.3)]</span>.

5.14 Effect of Concomitant Medications on Mycophenolic Acid Concentrations A variety of drugs have potential to alter systemic MPA exposure when co-administered with mycophenolate mofetil. Therefore, determination of MPA concentrations in plasma before and after making any changes to immunosuppressive therapy, or when adding or discontinuing concomitant medications, may be appropriate to ensure MPA concentrations remain stable.

5.15 Potential Impairment of Ability to Drive or Operate Machinery Mycophenolate mofetil may impact the ability to drive and use machines. Patients should avoid driving or using machines if they experience somnolence, confusion, dizziness, tremor, or hypotension during treatment with mycophenolate mofetil. <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]</span> .

5.1 Embryofetal Toxicity Use of MMF during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of first trimester pregnancy loss and an increased risk of congenital malformations, especially external ear and other facial abnormalities including cleft lip and palate, and anomalies of the distal limbs, heart, esophagus, kidney and nervous system. Females of reproductive potential must be made aware of these risks and must be counseled regarding pregnancy prevention and planning. Avoid use of MMF during pregnancy if safer treatment options are available <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3)]</span> .

5.2 Lymphoma and Other Malignancies Patients receiving immunosuppressant, including mycophenolate mofetil, are at increased risk of developing lymphomas and other malignancies, particularly of the skin <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]</span> . The risk appears to be related to the intensity and duration of immunosuppression rather than to the use of any specific agent. For patients with increased risk for skin cancer, exposure to sunlight and UV light should be limited by wearing protective clothing and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high protection factor. Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) developed in 0.4% to 1% of patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil (2 g or 3 g) with other immunosuppressive agents in controlled clinical trials of kidney, heart, and liver transplant patients <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]</span> . The majority of PTLD cases appear to be related to Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) infection. The risk of PTLD appears greatest in those individuals who are EBV seronegative, a population which includes many young children. In pediatric patients, no other malignancies besides PTLD were observed in clinical trials <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]</span>.

5.3 Serious Infections Patients receiving immunosuppressants, including mycophenolate mofetil, are at increased risk of developing bacterial, fungal, protozoal and new or reactivated viral infections, including opportunistic infections. The risk increases with the total immunosuppressive load. These infections may lead to serious outcomes, including hospitalizations and death <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.1), (6.2)]</span>. Serious viral infections reported include: Polyomavirus-associated nephropathy (PVAN), especially due to BK virus infection JC virus-associated progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), and Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections: CMV seronegative transplant patients who receive an organ from a CMV seropositive donor are at highest risk of CMV viremia and CMV disease. Viral reactivation in patients infected with Hepatitis B and C COVID-19 Consider reducing immunosuppression in patients who develop new infections or reactivate viral infections, weighing the risk that reduced immunosuppression represents to the functioning allograft. PVAN, especially due to BK virus infection, is associated with serious outcomes, including deteriorating renal function and renal graft loss <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]</span>. Patient monitoring may help detect patients at risk for PVAN. PML, which is sometimes fatal, commonly presents with hemiparesis, apathy, confusion, cognitive deficiencies, and ataxia <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]</span>. In immunosuppressed patients, physicians should consider PML in the differential diagnosis in patients reporting neurological symptoms. The risk of CMV viremia and CMV disease is highest among transplant recipients seronegative for CMV at time of transplant who receive a graft from a CMV seropositive donor. Therapeutic approaches to limiting CMV disease exist and should be routinely provided. Patient monitoring may help detect patients at risk for CMV disease. Viral reactivation has been reported in patients infected with HBV or HCV. Monitoring infected patients for clinical and laboratory signs of active HBV or HCV infection is recommended.

5.4 Blood Dyscrasias: Neutropenia and Pure Red Cell Aplasia (PRCA) Severe neutropenia [absolute neutrophil count (ANC) &lt;0.5 x 10 3 /μL] developed in transplant patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil 3 g daily <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]</span> . Patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil should be monitored for neutropenia. Neutropenia has been observed most frequently in the period from 31 to 180 days post-transplant in patients treated for prevention of kidney, heart and liver rejection. The development of neutropenia may be related to mycophenolate mofetil itself, concomitant medications, viral infections, or a combination of these causes. If neutropenia develops (ANC &lt;1.3 x 10 3 /μL), dosing with mycophenolate mofetil should be interrupted or the dose reduced, appropriate diagnostic tests performed, and the patient managed appropriately <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Dosage and Administration (2.5)]</span>. Patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil should be instructed to report immediately any evidence of infection, unexpected bruising, bleeding or any other manifestation of bone marrow depression. Consider monitoring with complete blood counts weekly for the first month, twice monthly for the second and third months, and monthly for the remainder of the first year. Cases of pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) have been reported in patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil in combination with other immunosuppressive agents. In some cases, PRCA was found to be reversible with dose reduction or cessation of mycophenolate mofetil therapy. In transplant patients, however, reduced immunosuppression may place the graft at risk.

5.5 Gastrointestinal Complications Gastrointestinal bleeding requiring hospitalization, ulceration and perforations were observed in clinical trials. Physicians should be aware of these serious adverse effects particularly when administering mycophenolate mofetil to patients with a gastrointestinal disease.

5.6 Patients with Hypoxanthine-Guanine Phosphoribosyl-Transferase Deficiency (HGPRT) Mycophenolate mofetil is an inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH) inhibitor; therefore it should be avoided in patients with hereditary deficiencies of hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyl - transferase (HGPRT) such as Lesch-Nyhan and Kelley-Seegmiller syndromes because it may cause an exacerbation of disease symptoms characterized by the overproduction and accumulation of uric acid leading to symptoms associated with gout such as acute arthritis, tophi, nephrolithiasis or urolithiasis and renal disease including renal failure.

5.7 Acute Inflammatory Syndrome Associated with Mycophenolate Products Acute inflammatory syndrome (AIS) has been reported with the use of MMF and mycophenolate products, and some cases have resulted in hospitalization. AIS is a paradoxical pro-inflammatory reaction characterized by fever, arthralgias, arthritis, muscle pain and elevated inflammatory markers including, C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate, without evidence of infection or underlying disease recurrence. Symptoms occur within weeks to months of initiation of treatment or a dose increase. After discontinuation, improvement of symptoms and inflammatory markers are usually observed within 24 to 48 hours. Monitor patients for symptoms and laboratory parameters of AIS when starting treatment with mycophenolate products or when increasing the dosage. Discontinue treatment and consider other treatment alternatives based on the risk and benefit for the patient.

5.8 Hypersensitivity Reactions Postmarketing cases of hypersensitivity reactions, including angioedema and anaphylaxis, have been reported with mycophenolate mofetil. These reactions generally occurred within hours to the next day after initiating mycophenolate mofetil. If signs or symptoms of hypersensitivity reaction occur, discontinue mycophenolate mofetil; treat and monitor until symptoms resolve <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Contraindications (4)]</span>.

5.9 Immunizations During treatment with mycophenolate mofetil, the use of live attenuated vaccines should be avoided (e.g., intranasal influenza, measles, mumps, rubella, oral polio, BCG, yellow fever, varicella, and TY21a typhoid vaccines)and patients should be advised that vaccinations may be less effective. Advise patients to discuss with the physician before seeking any immunizations.

5.12 Blood Donation Patients should not donate blood during therapy and for at least 6 weeks following discontinuation of mycophenolate mofetil because their blood or blood products might be administered to a female of reproductive potential or a pregnant woman.

5.13 Semen Donation Based on animal data, men should not donate semen during therapy and for 90 days following discontinuation of mycophenolate mofetil <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Use In Specific Populations (8.3)]</span>.

5.14 Effect of Concomitant Medications on Mycophenolic Acid Concentrations A variety of drugs have potential to alter systemic MPA exposure when co-administered with mycophenolate mofetil. Therefore, determination of MPA concentrations in plasma before and after making any changes to immunosuppressive therapy, or when adding or discontinuing concomitant medications, may be appropriate to ensure MPA concentrations remain stable.

5.15 Potential Impairment of Ability to Drive or Operate Machinery Mycophenolate mofetil may impact the ability to drive and use machines. Patients should avoid driving or using machines if they experience somnolence, confusion, dizziness, tremor, or hypotension during treatment with mycophenolate mofetil. <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]</span> .

PRECAUTIONS Pregnancy Exposure Prevention and Planning Females of reproductive potential must be made aware of the increased risk of first trimester pregnancy loss and congenital malformations and must be counseled regarding pregnancy prevention and planning. Females of reproductive potential include girls who have entered puberty and all women who have a uterus and have not passed through menopause. Menopause is the permanent end of menstruation and fertility. Menopause should be clinically confirmed by a patient’s healthcare practitioner. Some commonly used diagnostic criteria include 1) 12 months of spontaneous amenorrhea (not amenorrhea induced by a medical condition or medical therapy) or 2) postsurgical from a bilateral oophorectomy.

Pregnancy

Testing To prevent unplanned exposure during pregnancy, females of reproductive potential should have a serum or urine pregnancy test with a sensitivity of at least 25 mIU/mL immediately before starting mycophenolate mofetil. Another pregnancy test with the same sensitivity should be done 8 to 10 days later. Repeat pregnancy tests should be performed during routine follow-up visits. Results of all pregnancy tests should be discussed with the patient. In the event of a positive pregnancy test, females should be counseled with regard to whether the maternal benefits of mycophenolate treatment may outweigh the risks to the fetus in certain situations.

Contraception

Females of reproductive potential taking mycophenolate mofetil must receive contraceptive counseling and use acceptable contraception (see Table 8 for acceptable contraception methods). Patients must use acceptable birth control during entire mycophenolate mofetil therapy, and for 6 weeks after stopping mycophenolate mofetil, unless the patient chooses abstinence (she chooses to avoid heterosexual intercourse completely). Patients should be aware that mycophenolate mofetil reduces blood levels of the hormones in the oral contraceptive pill and could theoretically reduce its effectiveness (see PRECAUTIONS: Information for Patients and PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions: Oral Contraceptives ).

Table

8: Acceptable Contraception Methods for Females of Reproductive Potential Pick from the following birth control options: Option 1 Methods to Use Alone Intrauterine devices (IUDs) Tubal sterilization Patient’s partner had a vasectomy OR Option 2 Hormone Methods choose 1 Barrier Methods choose 1 Choose One Hormone Method AND One Barrier Method Estrogen and Progesterone Oral contraceptive pill Transdermal patch Vaginal ring Progesterone-Only Injection Implant AND Diaphragm with spermicide Cervical cap with spermicide Contraceptive sponge Male condom Female condom OR Option 3 Barrier Methods choose 1 Barrier Methods choose 1 Choose One Barrier Method from Each Column (must choose two methods) Diaphragm with spermicide Cervical cap with spermicide Contraceptive sponge AND Male condom Female condom Pregnancy Planning For patients who are considering pregnancy, consider alternative immunosuppressants with less potential for embryofetal toxicity. Risks and benefits of mycophenolate mofetil should be discussed with the patient.

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Gastrointestinal bleeding (requiring hospitalization) has been observed in approximately 3% of renal, in 1.7% of cardiac, and in 5.4% of hepatic transplant patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil 3 g daily. In pediatric renal transplant patients, 5/148 cases of gastrointestinal bleeding (requiring hospitalization) were observed. Gastrointestinal perforations have rarely been observed. Most patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil were also receiving other drugs known to be associated with these complications. Patients with active peptic ulcer disease were excluded from enrollment in studies with mycophenolate mofetil. Because mycophenolate mofetil has been associated with an increased incidence of digestive system adverse events, including infrequent cases of gastrointestinal tract ulceration, hemorrhage, and perforation, mycophenolate mofetil should be administered with caution in patients with active serious digestive system disease. Patients with Renal Impairment Subjects with severe chronic renal impairment (GFR < 25 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ) who have received single doses of mycophenolate mofetil showed higher plasma MPA and MPAG AUCs relative to subjects with lesser degrees of renal impairment or normal healthy volunteers. No data are available on the safety of long-term exposure to these levels of MPAG. Doses of mycophenolate mofetil greater than 1 g administered twice a day to renal transplant patients should be avoided and they should be carefully observed (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Pharmacokinetics and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION ). No data are available for cardiac or hepatic transplant patients with severe chronic renal impairment. Mycophenolate mofetil may be used for cardiac or hepatic transplant patients with severe chronic renal impairment if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. In patients with delayed renal graft function posttransplant, mean MPA AUC (0-12h) was comparable, but MPAG AUC (0-12h) was 2-fold to 3-fold higher, compared to that seen in posttransplant patients without delayed renal graft function. In the three controlled studies of prevention of renal rejection, there were 298 of 1,483 patients (20%) with delayed graft function. Although patients with delayed graft function have a higher incidence of certain adverse events (anemia, thrombocytopenia, hyperkalemia) than patients without delayed graft function, these events were not more frequent in patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil than azathioprine or placebo. No dose adjustment is recommended for these patients; however, they should be carefully observed (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Pharmacokinetics and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION ). Infections in Cardiac Transplant Patients In cardiac transplant patients, the overall incidence of opportunistic infections was approximately 10% higher in patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil than in those receiving azathioprine therapy, but this difference was not associated with excess mortality due to infection/sepsis among patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil (see ADVERSE REACTIONS ). There were more herpes virus (H. simplex, H. zoster, and cytomegalovirus) infections in cardiac transplant patients treated with mycophenolate mofetil compared to those treated with azathioprine (see ADVERSE REACTIONS ).

Concomitant

Medications It is recommended that mycophenolate mofetil not be administered concomitantly with azathioprine because both have the potential to cause bone marrow suppression and such concomitant administration has not been studied clinically. In view of the significant reduction in the AUC of MPA by cholestyramine, caution should be used in the concomitant administration of mycophenolate mofetil with drugs that interfere with enterohepatic recirculation because of the potential to reduce the efficacy of mycophenolate mofetil (see PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions ). Patients with HGPRT Deficiency Mycophenolate mofetil is an IMPDH (inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase) inhibitor; therefore, it should be avoided in patients with rare hereditary deficiency of hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyl-transferase (HGPRT) such as Lesch-Nyhan and Kelley-Seegmiller syndrome.

Immunizations

During treatment with mycophenolate mofetil, the use of live attenuated vaccines should be avoided and patients should be advised that vaccinations may be less effective (see PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions: Live Vaccines ). Information for Patients See Medication Guide Inform females of reproductive potential that use of mycophenolate mofetil during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of first trimester pregnancy loss and an increased risk of congenital malformations, and advise them as to the appropriate steps to manage these risks, including that they must use acceptable contraception (see WARNINGS: Embryofetal Toxicity and PRECAUTIONS: Pregnancy Exposure Prevention and Planning ). Discuss pregnancy testing, pregnancy prevention and planning with females of reproductive potential. In the event of a positive pregnancy test, females should be counseled with regard to whether the maternal benefits of mycophenolate treatment may outweigh the risks to the fetus in certain situations. Females of reproductive potential must use acceptable birth control during entire mycophenolate mofetil therapy and for 6 weeks after stopping mycophenolate mofetil, unless the patient chooses to avoid heterosexual intercourse completely (abstinence) (see PRECAUTIONS: Pregnancy Exposure Prevention and Planning: Table 8 ). For patients who are considering pregnancy, discuss appropriate alternative immunosuppressants with less potential for embryofetal toxicity. Risks and benefits of mycophenolate mofetil should be discussed with the patient. Give patients complete dosage instructions and inform them about the increased risk of lymphoproliferative disease and certain other malignancies. Inform patients that they need repeated appropriate laboratory tests while they are taking mycophenolate mofetil. Advise patients that they should not breastfeed during mycophenolate mofetil therapy.

Laboratory Tests

Complete blood counts should be performed weekly during the first month, twice monthly for the second and third months of treatment, then monthly through the first year (see WARNINGS , ADVERSE REACTIONS and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION ).

Drug Interactions

Drug interaction studies with mycophenolate mofetil have been conducted with acyclovir, antacids, cholestyramine, cyclosporine, ganciclovir, oral contraceptives, sevelamer, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, norfloxacin, and metronidazole. Drug interaction studies have not been conducted with other drugs that may be commonly administered to renal, cardiac or hepatic transplant patients. Mycophenolate mofetil has not been administered concomitantly with azathioprine.

Acyclovir

Coadministration of mycophenolate mofetil (1 g) and acyclovir (800 mg) to 12 healthy volunteers resulted in no significant change in MPA AUC and C max . However, MPAG and acyclovir plasma AUCs were increased 10.6% and 21.9%, respectively. Because MPAG plasma concentrations are increased in the presence of renal impairment, as are acyclovir concentrations, the potential exists for mycophenolate and acyclovir or its prodrug (e.g., valacyclovir) to compete for tubular secretion, further increasing the concentrations of both drugs. Antacids with Magnesium and Aluminum Hydroxides Absorption of a single dose of mycophenolate mofetil (2 g) was decreased when administered to ten rheumatoid arthritis patients also taking Maalox ®† TC (10 mL qid). The C max and AUC (0-24h) for MPA were 33% and 17% lower, respectively, than when mycophenolate mofetil was administered alone under fasting conditions. Mycophenolate mofetil may be administered to patients who are also taking antacids containing magnesium and aluminum hydroxides; however, it is recommended that mycophenolate mofetil and the antacid not be administered simultaneously.

Proton Pump

Inhibitors (PPIs) Coadministration of PPIs (e.g., lansoprazole, pantoprazole) in single doses to healthy volunteers and multiple doses to transplant patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil has been reported to reduce the exposure to mycophenolic acid (MPA). An approximate reduction of 30% to 70% in the C max and 25% to 35% in the AUC of MPA has been observed, possibly due to a decrease in MPA solubility at an increased gastric pH. The clinical impact of reduced MPA exposure on organ rejection has not been established in transplant patients receiving PPIs and mycophenolate mofetil. Because clinical relevance has not been established, PPIs should be used with caution when coadministered to transplant patients being treated with mycophenolate mofetil.

Cholestyramine

Following single-dose administration of 1.5 g mycophenolate mofetil to 12 healthy volunteers pretreated with 4 g tid of cholestyramine for 4 days, MPA AUC decreased approximately 40%. This decrease is consistent with interruption of enterohepatic recirculation which may be due to binding of recirculating MPAG with cholestyramine in the intestine. Therefore, mycophenolate mofetil is not recommended to be given with cholestyramine or other agents that may interfere with enterohepatic recirculation.

Cyclosporine

Cyclosporine (Sandimmune ®† ) pharmacokinetics (at doses of 275 to 415 mg/day) were unaffected by single and multiple doses of 1.5 g bid of mycophenolate mofetil in ten stable renal transplant patients. The mean (± SD) AUC (0-12h) and C max of cyclosporine after 14 days of multiple doses of mycophenolate mofetil were 3290 (± 822) ng•h/mL and 753 (± 161) ng/mL, respectively, compared to 3245 (± 1088) ng•h/mL and 700 (± 246) ng/mL, respectively, one week before administration of mycophenolate mofetil. Cyclosporine A interferes with MPA enterohepatic recirculation. In renal transplant patients, mean MPA exposure (AUC 0-12h ) was approximately 30% to 50% greater when mycophenolate mofetil is administered without cyclosporine compared with when mycophenolate mofetil is coadministered with cyclosporine. This interaction is due to cyclosporine inhibition of multidrug-resistance-associated protein 2 (MRP-2) transporter in the biliary tract, thereby preventing the excretion of MPAG into the bile that would lead to enterohepatic recirculation of MPA. This information should be taken into consideration when mycophenolate mofetil is used without cyclosporine; changes in MPA exposure should be expected when switching patients from cyclosporine A to one of the immunosuppressants which do not interfere with MPA’s enterohepatic cycle (e.g., tacrolimus; belatacept).

Telmisartan

Concommitant administration of telmisartan and mycophenolate mofetil resulted in an approximately 30% decrease in mycophenolic acid (MPA) concentrations. Telmisartan changes MPA’s elimination by enhancing PPAR gamma (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma) expression, which in turn results in an enhanced UGT1A9 expression and activity.

Ganciclovir

Following single-dose administration to 12 stable renal transplant patients, no pharmacokinetic interaction was observed between mycophenolate mofetil (1.5 g) and intravenous ganciclovir (5 mg/kg). Mean (± SD) ganciclovir AUC and C max (n = 10) were 54.3 (± 19) mcg•h/mL and 11.5 (± 1.8) mcg/mL, respectively, after coadministration of the two drugs, compared to 51 (± 17) mcg•h/mL and 10.6 (± 2) mcg/mL, respectively, after administration of intravenous ganciclovir alone. The mean (± SD) AUC and C max of MPA (n = 12) after coadministration were 80.9 (± 21.6) mcg•h/mL and 27.8 (± 13.9) mcg/mL, respectively, compared to values of 80.3 (± 16.4) mcg•h/mL and 30.9 (± 11.2) mcg/mL, respectively, after administration of mycophenolate mofetil alone. Because MPAG plasma concentrations are increased in the presence of renal impairment, as are ganciclovir concentrations, the two drugs will compete for tubular secretion and thus further increases in concentrations of both drugs may occur. In patients with renal impairment in which mycophenolate mofetil and ganciclovir or its prodrug (e.g., valganciclovir) are coadministered, patients should be monitored carefully.

Oral

Contraceptives A study of coadministration of mycophenolate mofetil (1 g bid) and combined oral contraceptives containing ethinylestradiol (0.02 mg to 0.04 mg) and levonorgestrel (0.05 mg to 0.20 mg), desogestrel (0.15 mg) or gestodene (0.05 mg to 0.10 mg) was conducted in 18 women with psoriasis over three consecutive menstrual cycles. Mean AUC (0-24h) was similar for ethinylestradiol and 3-keto desogestrel; however, mean levonorgestrel AUC (0-24h) significantly decreased by about 15%. There was large inter-patient variability (% CV in the range of 60% to 70%) in the data, especially for ethinylestradiol. Mean serum levels of LH, FSH and progesterone were not significantly affected. Mycophenolate mofetil may not have any influence on the ovulation-suppressing action of the studied oral contraceptives. It is recommended to coadminister mycophenolate mofetil with hormonal contraceptives (e.g., birth control pill, transdermal patch, vaginal ring, injection, and implant) with caution and additional barrier contraceptive methods must be used (see PRECAUTIONS: Pregnancy Exposure Prevention and Planning ).

Sevelamer

Concomitant administration of sevelamer and mycophenolate mofetil in adult and pediatric patients decreased the mean MPA C max and AUC 0-12h by 36% and 26% respectively. This data suggest that sevelamer and other calcium free phosphate binders should not be administered simultaneously with mycophenolate mofetil. Alternatively, it is recommended that sevelamer and other calcium free phosphate binders preferentially could be given 2 hours after mycophenolate mofetil intake to minimize the impact on the absorption of MPA.

Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole

Following single-dose administration of mycophenolate mofetil (1.5 g) to 12 healthy male volunteers on day 8 of a 10 day course of trimethoprim 160 mg/sulfamethoxazole 800 mg administered bid, no effect on the bioavailability of MPA was observed. The mean (± SD) AUC and C max of MPA after concomitant administration were 75.2 (± 19.8) mcg•h/mL and 34 (± 6.6) mcg/mL, respectively, compared to 79.2 (± 27.9) mcg•h/mL and 34.2 (± 10.7) mcg/mL, respectively, after administration of mycophenolate mofetil alone. Norfloxacin and Metronidazole Following single-dose administration of mycophenolate mofetil (1 g) to 11 healthy volunteers on day 4 of a 5 day course of a combination of norfloxacin and metronidazole, the mean MPA AUC 0-48h was significantly reduced by 33% compared to the administration of mycophenolate mofetil alone (p< 0.05). Therefore, mycophenolate mofetil is not recommended to be given with the combination of norfloxacin and metronidazole. There was no significant effect on mean MPA AUC 0-48h when mycophenolate mofetil was concomitantly administered with norfloxacin or metronidazole separately. The mean (± SD) MPA AUC 0-48h after coadministration of mycophenolate mofetil with norfloxacin or metronidazole separately was 48.3 (± 24) mcg•h/mL and 42.7 (± 23) mcg•h/mL, respectively, compared with 56.2 (± 24) mcg•h/mL after administration of mycophenolate mofetil alone. Ciprofloxacin and Amoxicillin plus Clavulanic Acid A total of 64 mycophenolate mofetil-treated renal transplant recipients received either oral ciprofloxacin 500 mg bid or amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid 375 mg tid for 7 days or at least 14 days.

Approximately

50% reductions in median trough MPA concentrations (pre-dose) from baseline (mycophenolate mofetil alone) were observed in 3 days following commencement of oral ciprofloxacin or amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid. These reductions in trough MPA concentrations tended to diminish within 14 days of antibiotic therapy and ceased within 3 days after discontinuation of antibiotics. The postulated mechanism for this interaction is an antibiotic-induced reduction in glucuronidase-possessing enteric organisms leading to a decrease in enterohepatic recirculation of MPA. The change in trough level may not accurately represent changes in overall MPA exposure; therefore, clinical relevance of these observations is unclear. Rifampin In a single heart-lung transplant patient, after correction for dose, a 67% decrease in MPA exposure (AUC 0-12h ) has been observed with concomitant administration of mycophenolate mofetil and rifampin. Therefore, mycophenolate mofetil is not recommended to be given with rifampin concomitantly unless the benefit outweighs the risk.

Other Interactions

The measured value for renal clearance of MPAG indicates removal occurs by renal tubular secretion as well as glomerular filtration. Consistent with this, coadministration of probenecid, a known inhibitor of tubular secretion, with mycophenolate mofetil in monkeys results in a 3-fold increase in plasma MPAG AUC and a 2-fold increase in plasma MPA AUC. Thus, other drugs known to undergo renal tubular secretion may compete with MPAG and thereby raise plasma concentrations of MPAG or the other drug undergoing tubular secretion. Drugs that alter the gastrointestinal flora may interact with mycophenolate mofetil by disrupting enterohepatic recirculation. Interference of MPAG hydrolysis may lead to less MPA available for absorption.

Live Vaccines

During treatment with mycophenolate mofetil, the use of live attenuated vaccines should be avoided and patients should be advised that vaccinations may be less effective (see PRECAUTIONS: Immunizations ). Influenza vaccination may be of value. Prescribers should refer to national guidelines for influenza vaccination. Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility In a 104-week oral carcinogenicity study in mice, mycophenolate mofetil in daily doses up to 180 mg/kg was not tumorigenic. The highest dose tested was 0.5 times the recommended clinical dose (2 g/day) in renal transplant patients and 0.3 times the recommended clinical dose (3 g/day) in cardiac transplant patients when corrected for differences in body surface area (BSA). In a 104-week oral carcinogenicity study in rats, mycophenolate mofetil in daily doses up to 15 mg/kg was not tumorigenic. The highest dose was 0.08 times the recommended clinical dose in renal transplant patients and 0.05 times the recommended clinical dose in cardiac transplant patients when corrected for BSA. While these animal doses were lower than those given to patients, they were maximal in those species and were considered adequate to evaluate the potential for human risk (see WARNINGS ). The genotoxic potential of mycophenolate mofetil was determined in five assays. Mycophenolate mofetil was genotoxic in the mouse lymphoma/thymidine kinase assay and the in vivo mouse micronucleus assay. Mycophenolate mofetil was not genotoxic in the bacterial mutation assay, the yeast mitotic gene conversion assay or the Chinese hamster ovary cell chromosomal aberration assay. Mycophenolate mofetil had no effect on fertility of male rats at oral doses up to 20 mg/kg/day. This dose represents 0.1 times the recommended clinical dose in renal transplant patients and 0.07 times the recommended clinical dose in cardiac transplant patients when corrected for BSA. In a female fertility and reproduction study conducted in rats, oral doses of 4.5 mg/kg/day caused malformations (principally of the head and eyes) in the first generation offspring in the absence of maternal toxicity. This dose was 0.02 times the recommended clinical dose in renal transplant patients and 0.01 times the recommended clinical dose in cardiac transplant patients when corrected for BSA. No effects on fertility or reproductive parameters were evident in the dams or in the subsequent generation.

Pregnancy Teratogenic

Effects.

Pregnancy

Category D (See WARNINGS section.) Use of mycophenolate mofetil during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of first trimester pregnancy loss and an increased risk of congenital malformations, especially external ear and other facial abnormalities including cleft lip and palate, and anomalies of the distal limbs, heart, esophagus, kidney, and nervous system. In animal studies, congenital malformations and pregnancy loss occurred when pregnant rats and rabbits received mycophenolic acid at dose multiples similar to and less than clinical doses. If this drug is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus. Risks and benefits of mycophenolate mofetil should be discussed with the patient. When appropriate, consider alternative immunosuppressants with less potential for embryofetal toxicity. In certain situations, the patient and her healthcare practitioner may decide that the maternal benefits outweigh the risks to the fetus. For those females using mycophenolate mofetil at any time during pregnancy and those becoming pregnant within 6 weeks of discontinuing therapy, the healthcare practitioner should report the pregnancy to the Mycophenolate Pregnancy Registry (1-800-617-8191). The healthcare practitioner should strongly encourage the patient to enroll in the pregnancy registry. The information provided to the registry will help the healthcare community better understand the effects of mycophenolate in pregnancy. In the National Transplantation Pregnancy Registry (NTPR), there were data on 33 mycophenolate mofetil-exposed pregnancies in 24 transplant patients; there were 15 spontaneous abortions (45%) and 18 live-born infants. Four of these 18 infants had structural malformations (22%). In postmarketing data (collected 1995 to 2007) on 77 females exposed to systemic mycophenolate mofetil during pregnancy, 25 had spontaneous abortions and 14 had a malformed infant or fetus. Six of 14 malformed offspring had ear abnormalities. Because these postmarketing data are reported voluntarily, it is not always possible to reliably estimate the frequency of particular adverse outcomes. These malformations are similar to findings in animal reproductive toxicology studies. For comparison, the background rate for congenital anomalies in the United States is about 3%, and NTPR data show a rate of 4% to 5% among babies born to organ transplant patients using other immunosuppressive drugs. In animal reproductive toxicology studies, there were increased rates of fetal resorptions and malformations in the absence of maternal toxicity. Female rats and rabbits received mycophenolate mofetil doses equivalent to 0.02 to 0.9 times the recommended human dose for renal and cardiac transplant patients, based on body surface area conversions. In rat offspring, malformations included anophthalmia, agnathia, and hydrocephaly. In rabbit offspring, malformations included ectopia cordis, ectopic kidneys, diaphragmatic hernia, and umbilical hernia.

Nursing Mothers

Studies in rats treated with mycophenolate mofetil have shown mycophenolic acid to be excreted in milk. It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from mycophenolate mofetil, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

Pediatric Use

Based on pharmacokinetic and safety data in pediatric patients after renal transplantation, the recommended dose of mycophenolate mofetil oral suspension is 600 mg/m 2 bid (up to a maximum of 1 g bid). Also see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY , CLINICAL STUDIES , ADVERSE REACTIONS , and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION . Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients receiving allogeneic cardiac or hepatic transplants have not been established.

Geriatric Use

Clinical studies of mycophenolate mofetil did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal or cardiac function and of concomitant or other drug therapy. Elderly patients may be at an increased risk of adverse reactions compared with younger individuals (see ADVERSE REACTIONS ).

Drug Interactions Drug interaction studies with mycophenolate mofetil have been conducted with acyclovir, antacids, cholestyramine, cyclosporine, ganciclovir, oral contraceptives, sevelamer, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, norfloxacin, and metronidazole. Drug interaction studies have not been conducted with other drugs that may be commonly administered to renal, cardiac or hepatic transplant patients. Mycophenolate mofetil has not been administered concomitantly with azathioprine.

Acyclovir

Coadministration of mycophenolate mofetil (1 g) and acyclovir (800 mg) to 12 healthy volunteers resulted in no significant change in MPA AUC and C max . However, MPAG and acyclovir plasma AUCs were increased 10.6% and 21.9%, respectively. Because MPAG plasma concentrations are increased in the presence of renal impairment, as are acyclovir concentrations, the potential exists for mycophenolate and acyclovir or its prodrug (e.g., valacyclovir) to compete for tubular secretion, further increasing the concentrations of both drugs. Antacids with Magnesium and Aluminum Hydroxides Absorption of a single dose of mycophenolate mofetil (2 g) was decreased when administered to ten rheumatoid arthritis patients also taking Maalox ®† TC (10 mL qid). The C max and AUC (0-24h) for MPA were 33% and 17% lower, respectively, than when mycophenolate mofetil was administered alone under fasting conditions. Mycophenolate mofetil may be administered to patients who are also taking antacids containing magnesium and aluminum hydroxides; however, it is recommended that mycophenolate mofetil and the antacid not be administered simultaneously.

Proton Pump

Inhibitors (PPIs) Coadministration of PPIs (e.g., lansoprazole, pantoprazole) in single doses to healthy volunteers and multiple doses to transplant patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil has been reported to reduce the exposure to mycophenolic acid (MPA). An approximate reduction of 30% to 70% in the C max and 25% to 35% in the AUC of MPA has been observed, possibly due to a decrease in MPA solubility at an increased gastric pH. The clinical impact of reduced MPA exposure on organ rejection has not been established in transplant patients receiving PPIs and mycophenolate mofetil. Because clinical relevance has not been established, PPIs should be used with caution when coadministered to transplant patients being treated with mycophenolate mofetil.

Cholestyramine

Following single-dose administration of 1.5 g mycophenolate mofetil to 12 healthy volunteers pretreated with 4 g tid of cholestyramine for 4 days, MPA AUC decreased approximately 40%. This decrease is consistent with interruption of enterohepatic recirculation which may be due to binding of recirculating MPAG with cholestyramine in the intestine. Therefore, mycophenolate mofetil is not recommended to be given with cholestyramine or other agents that may interfere with enterohepatic recirculation.

Cyclosporine

Cyclosporine (Sandimmune ®† ) pharmacokinetics (at doses of 275 to 415 mg/day) were unaffected by single and multiple doses of 1.5 g bid of mycophenolate mofetil in ten stable renal transplant patients. The mean (± SD) AUC (0-12h) and C max of cyclosporine after 14 days of multiple doses of mycophenolate mofetil were 3290 (± 822) ng•h/mL and 753 (± 161) ng/mL, respectively, compared to 3245 (± 1088) ng•h/mL and 700 (± 246) ng/mL, respectively, one week before administration of mycophenolate mofetil. Cyclosporine A interferes with MPA enterohepatic recirculation. In renal transplant patients, mean MPA exposure (AUC 0-12h ) was approximately 30% to 50% greater when mycophenolate mofetil is administered without cyclosporine compared with when mycophenolate mofetil is coadministered with cyclosporine. This interaction is due to cyclosporine inhibition of multidrug-resistance-associated protein 2 (MRP-2) transporter in the biliary tract, thereby preventing the excretion of MPAG into the bile that would lead to enterohepatic recirculation of MPA. This information should be taken into consideration when mycophenolate mofetil is used without cyclosporine; changes in MPA exposure should be expected when switching patients from cyclosporine A to one of the immunosuppressants which do not interfere with MPA’s enterohepatic cycle (e.g., tacrolimus; belatacept).

Telmisartan

Concommitant administration of telmisartan and mycophenolate mofetil resulted in an approximately 30% decrease in mycophenolic acid (MPA) concentrations. Telmisartan changes MPA’s elimination by enhancing PPAR gamma (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma) expression, which in turn results in an enhanced UGT1A9 expression and activity.

Ganciclovir

Following single-dose administration to 12 stable renal transplant patients, no pharmacokinetic interaction was observed between mycophenolate mofetil (1.5 g) and intravenous ganciclovir (5 mg/kg). Mean (± SD) ganciclovir AUC and C max (n = 10) were 54.3 (± 19) mcg•h/mL and 11.5 (± 1.8) mcg/mL, respectively, after coadministration of the two drugs, compared to 51 (± 17) mcg•h/mL and 10.6 (± 2) mcg/mL, respectively, after administration of intravenous ganciclovir alone. The mean (± SD) AUC and C max of MPA (n = 12) after coadministration were 80.9 (± 21.6) mcg•h/mL and 27.8 (± 13.9) mcg/mL, respectively, compared to values of 80.3 (± 16.4) mcg•h/mL and 30.9 (± 11.2) mcg/mL, respectively, after administration of mycophenolate mofetil alone. Because MPAG plasma concentrations are increased in the presence of renal impairment, as are ganciclovir concentrations, the two drugs will compete for tubular secretion and thus further increases in concentrations of both drugs may occur. In patients with renal impairment in which mycophenolate mofetil and ganciclovir or its prodrug (e.g., valganciclovir) are coadministered, patients should be monitored carefully.

Oral

Contraceptives A study of coadministration of mycophenolate mofetil (1 g bid) and combined oral contraceptives containing ethinylestradiol (0.02 mg to 0.04 mg) and levonorgestrel (0.05 mg to 0.20 mg), desogestrel (0.15 mg) or gestodene (0.05 mg to 0.10 mg) was conducted in 18 women with psoriasis over three consecutive menstrual cycles. Mean AUC (0-24h) was similar for ethinylestradiol and 3-keto desogestrel; however, mean levonorgestrel AUC (0-24h) significantly decreased by about 15%. There was large inter-patient variability (% CV in the range of 60% to 70%) in the data, especially for ethinylestradiol. Mean serum levels of LH, FSH and progesterone were not significantly affected. Mycophenolate mofetil may not have any influence on the ovulation-suppressing action of the studied oral contraceptives. It is recommended to coadminister mycophenolate mofetil with hormonal contraceptives (e.g., birth control pill, transdermal patch, vaginal ring, injection, and implant) with caution and additional barrier contraceptive methods must be used (see PRECAUTIONS: Pregnancy Exposure Prevention and Planning ).

Sevelamer

Concomitant administration of sevelamer and mycophenolate mofetil in adult and pediatric patients decreased the mean MPA C max and AUC 0-12h by 36% and 26% respectively. This data suggest that sevelamer and other calcium free phosphate binders should not be administered simultaneously with mycophenolate mofetil. Alternatively, it is recommended that sevelamer and other calcium free phosphate binders preferentially could be given 2 hours after mycophenolate mofetil intake to minimize the impact on the absorption of MPA.

Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole

Following single-dose administration of mycophenolate mofetil (1.5 g) to 12 healthy male volunteers on day 8 of a 10 day course of trimethoprim 160 mg/sulfamethoxazole 800 mg administered bid, no effect on the bioavailability of MPA was observed. The mean (± SD) AUC and C max of MPA after concomitant administration were 75.2 (± 19.8) mcg•h/mL and 34 (± 6.6) mcg/mL, respectively, compared to 79.2 (± 27.9) mcg•h/mL and 34.2 (± 10.7) mcg/mL, respectively, after administration of mycophenolate mofetil alone. Norfloxacin and Metronidazole Following single-dose administration of mycophenolate mofetil (1 g) to 11 healthy volunteers on day 4 of a 5 day course of a combination of norfloxacin and metronidazole, the mean MPA AUC 0-48h was significantly reduced by 33% compared to the administration of mycophenolate mofetil alone (p< 0.05). Therefore, mycophenolate mofetil is not recommended to be given with the combination of norfloxacin and metronidazole. There was no significant effect on mean MPA AUC 0-48h when mycophenolate mofetil was concomitantly administered with norfloxacin or metronidazole separately. The mean (± SD) MPA AUC 0-48h after coadministration of mycophenolate mofetil with norfloxacin or metronidazole separately was 48.3 (± 24) mcg•h/mL and 42.7 (± 23) mcg•h/mL, respectively, compared with 56.2 (± 24) mcg•h/mL after administration of mycophenolate mofetil alone. Ciprofloxacin and Amoxicillin plus Clavulanic Acid A total of 64 mycophenolate mofetil-treated renal transplant recipients received either oral ciprofloxacin 500 mg bid or amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid 375 mg tid for 7 days or at least 14 days.

Approximately

50% reductions in median trough MPA concentrations (pre-dose) from baseline (mycophenolate mofetil alone) were observed in 3 days following commencement of oral ciprofloxacin or amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid. These reductions in trough MPA concentrations tended to diminish within 14 days of antibiotic therapy and ceased within 3 days after discontinuation of antibiotics. The postulated mechanism for this interaction is an antibiotic-induced reduction in glucuronidase-possessing enteric organisms leading to a decrease in enterohepatic recirculation of MPA. The change in trough level may not accurately represent changes in overall MPA exposure; therefore, clinical relevance of these observations is unclear. Rifampin In a single heart-lung transplant patient, after correction for dose, a 67% decrease in MPA exposure (AUC 0-12h ) has been observed with concomitant administration of mycophenolate mofetil and rifampin. Therefore, mycophenolate mofetil is not recommended to be given with rifampin concomitantly unless the benefit outweighs the risk.

Other Interactions

The measured value for renal clearance of MPAG indicates removal occurs by renal tubular secretion as well as glomerular filtration. Consistent with this, coadministration of probenecid, a known inhibitor of tubular secretion, with mycophenolate mofetil in monkeys results in a 3-fold increase in plasma MPAG AUC and a 2-fold increase in plasma MPA AUC. Thus, other drugs known to undergo renal tubular secretion may compete with MPAG and thereby raise plasma concentrations of MPAG or the other drug undergoing tubular secretion. Drugs that alter the gastrointestinal flora may interact with mycophenolate mofetil by disrupting enterohepatic recirculation. Interference of MPAG hydrolysis may lead to less MPA available for absorption.

Live Vaccines

During treatment with mycophenolate mofetil, the use of live attenuated vaccines should be avoided and patients should be advised that vaccinations may be less effective (see PRECAUTIONS: Immunizations ). Influenza vaccination may be of value. Prescribers should refer to national guidelines for influenza vaccination.

17.1 Embryofetal Toxicity Pregnancy loss and malformations Inform females of reproductive potential and pregnant women that use of mycophenolate mofetil during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of first trimester pregnancy loss and an increased risk of congenital malformations. Advise that they must use an acceptable form of contraception [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) , Use in Specific Populations (8.1 , 8.3) ]. Encourage pregnant women to enroll in the Pregnancy Exposure Registry. This registry monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to mycophenolate [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ].

Contraception

Discuss pregnancy testing, pregnancy prevention and planning with females of reproductive potential [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3) ]. Females of reproductive potential must use an acceptable form of birth control during the entire mycophenolate mofetil therapy and for 6 weeks after stopping mycophenolate mofetil, unless the patient chooses abstinence . Mycophenolate mofetil may reduce effectiveness of oral contraceptives. Use of additional barrier contraceptive methods is recommended [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3) ]. For patients who are considering pregnancy, discuss appropriate alternative immunosuppressants with less potential for embryofetal toxicity. Risks and benefits of mycophenolate mofetil should be discussed with the patient. Advise sexually active male patients and/or their partners to use effective contraception during the treatment of the male patient and for at least 90 days after cessation of treatment. This recommendation is based on findings of animal studies [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3) , Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1) ].