Mycophenolate Mofetil May Be Effective for Chronic Urticaria

Including autoimmune urticaria

Chronic urticaria is often idiopathic, and in some instances is associated with autoantibodies directed against immunoglobulin E (IgE). Treatment for such patients is often difficult. Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) has previously been reported to be of benefit in a small, open-label trial.

These authors retrospectively reviewed their experience with 19 patients with chronic urticaria, including 11 with autoimmune urticaria. They used MMF, beginning at a dose of 500 mg twice daily and escalating to as high as 3000 mg twice daily. Disease was controlled in 17 patients, with a mean dose of just over 2000 mg per day. Tapering was possible in some of the patients.

Reviewing Author

Jeffrey P. Callen, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory board XOMA; Eli Lilly; Celgene

Equity Various trust accounts

Editorial boards JAMA Dermatology; UpToDate

Leadership positions in professional societies Association of Professors of Dermatology (President-Elect)