Mycophenylate

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Mycophenolate

Mycophenolate (pronunciation: my-co-phen-o-late) is a type of medication used primarily in organ transplantation to prevent rejection. It is also used in the treatment of certain autoimmune diseases.

Etymology

The term "Mycophenolate" is derived from the fungus species Penicillium stoloniferum, from which the active ingredient, mycophenolic acid, was first isolated. The suffix "-late" indicates it is an ester of mycophenolic acid.

Usage

Mycophenolate is used in combination with other medications to prevent the body from rejecting transplanted organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys. It works by suppressing the body's immune system, which could otherwise attack the transplanted organ.

In addition to its use in organ transplantation, Mycophenolate is also used to treat certain autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and vasculitis, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues.

Related Terms

  • Immunosuppressant: A type of drug that reduces the body's ability to respond to foreign substances, including transplanted organs.
  • Autoimmune disease: A condition in which the body's immune system attacks its own cells and tissues.
  • Transplant rejection: A process in which a transplant recipient's immune system attacks the transplanted organ or tissue.
  • Mycophenolic acid: The active ingredient in Mycophenolate, first isolated from the fungus Penicillium stoloniferum.

Side Effects

Like all medications, Mycophenolate can cause side effects. These may include gastrointestinal problems, blood disorders, and an increased risk of infections due to the suppression of the immune system.

External links

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