Mycophenolate mofetil vs Enteric-coated mycophenolate sodium in de-novo kidney transplant recipients (summary of the side effects within first three months): single center experience

Abstract

Aim: This study assesses and compares GI, bone marrow (BM), and hepatotoxicity side effects of MMF and EC-MPS in the first 3 months after de-novo kidney transplantation. Material and Methods: Retrospective data from 100 kidney transplant recipients were analyzed between January 2016 and December 2021 at Gazi University Transplantation Center. Patients were divided into two groups: MMF (group A, n=68) and EC-MPS (group B, n=32). Side effects within the first three months post-transplantation were assessed, including gastrointestinal side effects (dyspepsia, bloating, diarrhea), bone marrow complications, and hepatotoxicity. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software. Results: In group A, we have not seen any side effects of MMF in 38% of recipients during the postoperative first three months. Sixty-two percent of recipients had the following side effects: gastrointestinal 22%, bone marrow 24%, and hepatotoxicity 16%. In group B, we have not seen any side effects of EC-MPS in 43% of recipients during the postoperative first three months. Fifty-seven percent of recipients experienced the following side effects: BM in 28%, GI in 25%, and hepatotoxicity in 4%. Management involved medication adjustments, with side effects ceasing in most cases. Conclusions: In conclusion, this study highlights the overall favorable safety profiles of MMF and EC-MPS in the early post-transplant period. However, it underscores the potential advantage of EC-MPS over MMF in hepatotoxicity, with EC-MPS demonstrating a lower incidence of hepatotoxicity than MMF.