Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

MYCOPHENOLATE MOFETIL - ORAL

(my-coh-FEN-oh-late MOW-fet-ill)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Cellcept

WARNING: Mycophenolate decreases the body's ability to protect against illness/infection and may increase the risk of developing lymph node tumors (lymphoma). Therefore, this medication must only be given under close medical supervision. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection (such as persistent sore throat or fever), weight loss, night sweats, enlarged lymph nodes, or skin growths.

Uses

This medication suppresses the body's immune system. It is used in combination with other medications to prevent rejection of transplanted kidneys or other organs.

How To Use

Take this medication as directed usually twice daily on an empty stomach one hour before or two hours after meals. Swallow this medication whole. Do not crush, chew or open it. This medication is usually started within 72 hours after the transplant operation. Continue taking this medication for the full time as prescribed. Do not increase your dose or stop taking this without consulting your doctor.

Side Effects

This medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, gas, tremors, sweating, flushing, insomnia, pain, rash, mood changes, or vision changes. If these symptoms continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: fever, chills, unusual weakness, unusual or easy bruising, swollen glands, skin growths, chest pain (angina), more frequent or painful urination, swelling of the hands or feet, difficulty breathing, constipation. Because this medication affects your immune system, you may be at increased risk of infections or other illnesses. Discuss this with your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease, stomach or digestive disorders, any allergies. This medication should not be used during pregnancy. It is suggested that contraceptive measures be taken before beginning therapy and continuing for at least 6 weeks after this medication is discontinued. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription drugs you are taking, including: antacids, aspirin, theophylline, phenytoin, cholestyramine, probenecid, acyclovir, ganciclovir. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Notes

Laboratory tests will be done routinely while taking this medication to monitor its effects and to prevent side effects. If the capsule should come apart, avoid inhaling the powder or direct contact with the skin or mucus membranes. If contact should occur wash thoroughly with soap and water; rinse eyes with plain water.

Missed Dose

Try to receive each dose as scheduled. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up. If you miss more than one dose contact your health care professional to establish a new dosing schedule.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from heat and light as directed. Keep out of reach of children.