From the Guidelines
There is no significant interaction between mycophenolate (CellCept) and grapes that patients need to worry about. Unlike some medications that interact with grapefruit, mycophenolate can be safely taken with grapes or grape products. Mycophenolate is an immunosuppressant medication commonly used to prevent organ rejection after transplantation and to treat certain autoimmune conditions. The primary concern with mycophenolate is interactions with other medications rather than foods.
The medication works by inhibiting an enzyme called inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase, which reduces the proliferation of T and B lymphocytes. While patients taking mycophenolate should be careful about taking antacids, cholestyramine, or certain antibiotics within a few hours of their dose due to potential absorption issues, they can consume grapes freely without affecting the medication's efficacy or safety profile. As always, patients should take mycophenolate exactly as prescribed, typically on an empty stomach, and maintain consistent timing of doses for optimal results. According to the guidelines for the management of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis 1, and the monitoring of nonsteroidal immunosuppressive drugs in patients with lung disease and lung transplant recipients 1, there is no mention of grape interaction, further supporting the safety of consuming grapes with mycophenolate.
Key points to consider when taking mycophenolate include:
- Potential drug interactions with antacids, cholestyramine, or certain antibiotics
- Increased risk of opportunistic infections and certain malignancies
- Need for regular monitoring of blood cell counts, liver function, and kidney function
- Importance of taking the medication exactly as prescribed to maintain optimal efficacy and safety. Patients should be aware of the potential side effects of mycophenolate, including gastrointestinal effects, hematologic effects, and increased risk of infections, as outlined in the guidelines 1.
From the Research
Interactions between Mycophenolate Mofetil and Grapes
There is no direct evidence of interactions between Mycophenolate Mofetil (Cellcept) and grapes in the provided studies.
Mechanism of Action and Pharmacokinetics
- Mycophenolate mofetil is a prodrug that is rapidly hydrolyzed to mycophenolic acid after oral administration 2.
- Mycophenolic acid inhibits de novo purine synthesis, resulting in antiproliferative effects on T and B lymphocytes 2.
- The absolute bioavailability of mycophenolic acid is 94% for oral administration; the maximum plasma concentration occurs after two hours 2.
Adverse Effects and Interactions
- The most common adverse effects of mycophenolate mofetil are gastrointestinal 2.
- Mycophenolate mofetil may be linked to bone marrow suppression and certain malignancies 2.
- There is no mention of interactions with grapes or any other food products in the provided studies.