Cellcept may cause birth defects

Wed, 31 Oct 2007 18:16:51

FDA has raised worrying concerns over the risk of birth defects and miscarriages following the use of Cellcept (mycophenolate mofetil).

According to AP, Cellcept made by Roche Holding of Switzerland, also lowers birth control hormone levels, which may reduce their effectiveness in preventing pregnancy.

FDA has warned that women of childbearing age should have a negative pregnancy test within a week of starting the drug, use effective contraceptives, and receive birth control counseling during the treatment course.

Previous studies revealed that Cellcept decreased the body's ability to protect against illness and infection, and increased the risk of developing lymph node tumors (lymphoma).

Cellcept is an immune system-suppressing drug used to prevent organ rejection in transplant patients. It is also prescribed to lupus patients who can not tolerate chemotherapy.

source presstv