Can mycophenolate mofetil be tapered safely in myasthenia gravis? A retrospective, multicenter analysis

Lisa D. Hobson-Webb, Michael Hehir, Brian Crum, Amy Visser, Donald Sanders, Ted M. Burns

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

25 Scopus citations

Abstract

Introduction: Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is frequently used to treat myasthenia gravis, but there is little information to guide clinicians on the safety of reducing the dose in well-controlled patients. Methods: This retrospective chart review at 3 institutions identified 92 patients who had undergone MMF taper after achieving either pharmacologic remission or minimal manifestations status. Statistical analysis was performed to assess differences in patient characteristics between patients who had successfully tapered MMF and those who relapsed. Results: Of 92 patients undergoing a taper, 30 relapsed. The relapses were mild, transient, and usually responded to increased MMF dose. MG crisis did not occur. The mean dose at time of relapse was 888 mg/day. Patients with relapses were tapered more quickly (8.4 vs. 62.4 months). Conclusions: Tapering MMF appears safe after years of disease stability. Reducing the dose at a dose of only 500 mg/day every 12 months is recommended.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)211-215
Number of pages5
JournalMuscle and Nerve
Volume52
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 1 2015

Keywords

  • Monotherapy
  • Myasthenia gravis
  • Mycophenolate mofetil
  • Relapse
  • Taper

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Physiology
  • Clinical Neurology
  • Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
  • Physiology (medical)

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