Name of the Procedure:

Common Name: Mycophenolic Acid

Technical Term: Mycophenolic Acid, Oral, 180 mg (HCPCS Code: J7518)

Summary

Mycophenolic Acid is a medication taken orally in the form of tablets, commonly used to prevent organ rejection in patients who have received a kidney transplant. It helps suppress the immune system to prevent it from attacking the transplanted organ.

Purpose

Medical Conditions Addressed:

• Prevention of organ rejection post-kidney transplant.

Goals/Expected Outcomes:

• To maintain the health and function of a transplanted kidney by suppressing the patient's immune response.

Indications

Conditions Warranting the Procedure:

• Kidney transplantation.

Patient Criteria:

• Patients who have undergone a kidney transplant and require ongoing immunosuppressive therapy to prevent organ rejection.

Preparation

Pre-procedure Instructions:

• Follow the prescribed dosing regimen exactly as directed by a healthcare provider.
• No specific fasting or special preparation needed before taking the oral medication.

Diagnostic Tests/Assessments:

• Regular blood tests to monitor kidney function and drug levels.

Procedure Description

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. The patient receives a prescription for Mycophenolic Acid, typically taken as 180 mg oral tablets.
2. The medication is usually taken twice daily, as per the healthcare provider’s instructions.
3. The patient should swallow the tablets whole with water without crushing or chewing them.

Tools/Equipment:

• Oral tablets of Mycophenolic Acid, 180 mg.

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• Not applicable for oral medication.

Duration

Typical Duration:

• The duration is ongoing, potentially for the lifetime of the transplanted organ or as directed by a healthcare provider.

Setting

Where Performed:

• At home or any location where the oral medication can be conveniently taken.

Personnel

Healthcare Professionals Involved:

• Transplant surgeons and nephrologists (for ongoing management).
• Pharmacists (for medication dispensing and counseling).

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Gastrointestinal discomfort (e.g., diarrhea, nausea, vomiting).
• Increased risk of infections due to immune suppression.

Rare Risks:

• Bone marrow suppression, leading to anemia, leukopenia, or thrombocytopenia.
• Potential severe allergic reactions.

Management:

• Regular monitoring and adjustment of doses by the healthcare provider to mitigate risks.

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Effective prevention of kidney transplant rejection.
• Improved longevity and function of the transplanted kidney.

Timeframe:

• Benefits are realized continuously as long as the medication is taken as prescribed.

Recovery

Post-procedure Care:

• Adherence to the prescribed medication regimen.
• Regular follow-ups and blood tests to monitor drug efficacy and side effects.

Expected Recovery Time:

• Continuous use as long as the transplant is functional and per doctor’s advice.

Restrictions/Follow-Up:

• Routine follow-up appointments for monitoring kidney function and medication levels.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Other immunosuppressive drugs such as Tacrolimus, Cyclosporine, or Sirolimus.

Pros and Cons:

• Alternatives might have different side effect profiles or may not be as effective in the individual patient; they come with their own sets of benefits and risks.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Since it is an oral medication, the patient will only experience the act of swallowing a tablet.

After the Procedure:

• Patients should feel normal daily, aside from possible side effects like gastrointestinal discomfort or other minor symptoms.

Pain Management and Comfort:

• Over-the-counter pain relief (e.g., acetaminophen) for any discomfort if needed.
• Report any significant side effects to the healthcare provider for appropriate management.