Rheumatology Medical News about lupus nephritis;mycophenolate mofetil

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The effectiveness and safety of mycophenolate mofetil in lupus nephritis
Clinical Rheumatology, 03/31/09

Elyan M et al. – Data suggest that mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is an effective treatment for both induction and maintenance of remission of moderate to severe lupus nephritis (LN) with a relatively favorable safety profile. Early treatment and a dose ≥2 g/d are essential for optimal outcome. CR may take >6 months.

Methods

Study to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of MMF for inducing and/or maintaining remission of LN
25 pts consecutively treated with MMF
Primary outcome:
- complete renal remission (CR) defined by urine protein/creatinine ratio ≤0.5 g/g and inactive urine sediment
- and serum creatinine within <15% above baseline
For induction, 21 episodes of active, moderate to severe LN were treated with MMF

Results

57% achieved CR over a median of 8.5 mo
Of 13 pts who had LN for <12 mo and took ≥2 g/d of MMF, 11 achieved CR, vs 1/8 pts who did not meet both criteria
For maintenance therapy, 15 pts received MMF for a median of 20 mo
13% pts experienced renal flares while taking MMF
Most adverse events were transient and did not require change in therapy