Physicians study use of mycophenolate mofetil in children
September 28, 2018
Physicians from centers in four countries collaborated on a recent retrospective study concerning the use of mycophenolate mofetil (Cell Cept) in autoimmune/immune-mediated diseases of the central nervous system in children. A large percentage of the study population were children with autoimmune encephalitis. The authors were interested in the safety of the medication and whether children receiving it experienced less relapses.
As far as safety, there were adverse events, but the authors noted none were life-threatening. They concluded the medication lowered relapse rates in children, although 20% did relapse. Some relapses were attributed to a delayed time in starting the medication, issues related to dosing and length of treatment, or weaning of other medications.
A comprehensive summary of treatment recommendations for the use of mycophenolate mofetil in the pediatric population is provided. In the publication the physicians stated careful deliberation must be made regarding the risk vs. benefits for each patient and the necessity for long-term chronic immunosuppression. They also noted the data is still limited and comparison studies with other steroid-sparing medications are needed.
The abstract can be read here.
