Immunosuppressants

CellCept (mycophenolate mofetil) is an oral immune-suppressing treatment commonly used to treat MG patients. It reduces the levels of antibodies that attack acetylcholine receptors, easing muscle weakness.

Cyclophosphamide is an immunosuppressant commonly used to treat patients with severe myasthenia gravis who do not respond to other treatments such as corticosteroids. It is available in oral and injectable forms.

Cyclosporine is an oral medicine used for the long-term treatment of symptoms of severe myasthenia gravis. It suppresses immune activity, so that “attacking” immune cells aren’t stimulated into action in the first place.

Azathioprine is an oral medication that suppresses the immune system by disrupting the formation of DNA, decreasing the production of new cells. By stopping the growth of white blood cells, whose role is to make antibodies, azathioprine lowers the production of harmful autoantibodies.

Methotrexate is an immunomodulator, or molecule that regulates immune system activity. It helps reduce or suppress the production of antibodies to allow some acetylcholine receptors to be spared. The hope is this will facilitate the transmission of messages from nerves to muscles, improving muscle strength and reducing the weakness and fatigue.

Prograf (tacrolimus) is an approved immunosuppressant that, used together with other medicines, helps to prevent rejection after an organ transplant (heart, liver or kidneys). Researchers think tacrolimus may improve communication between nerve cells and muscle cells by increasing the release of calcium ions in muscle cells.