Mycophenolate mofetil

What is mycophenolate mofetil?

Mycophenolate mofetil (also called CellCept^®) is a medicine that suppresses the body’s immune system. It is used to decrease the natural immune response and prevent graft rejection in patients who receive stem cell transplants.

CellCept^® is available is several forms taken by mouth:

• A 250-mg blue-brown capsule
• A 500-mg lavender caplet-shaped tablet
• A white 200-mg/ml liquid suspension

CellCept^® is also available as a clear pale-yellow liquid given by vein.

How to take and store CellCept^®

• Store the medicine at room temperature.
• It is best to take this medicine on an empty stomach.
• Swallow the capsules and tablets whole. Do not break, open, crush, or chew them.

Possible side effects of mycophenolate mofetil

Early

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Upset stomach

Later (usually more than a day after treatment starts)

• Diarrhea, constipation
• Skin rash
• Headache
• High blood pressure
• Low blood counts

Call the doctor right away if you have any of the following side effects:

• Unexplained fever, chills, or sore throat
• Sores or white patches in your mouth
• Severe stomach pain, bloody vomit, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• Bloody or black bowel movements or blood in your urine
• Unusual bruising or bleeding
• Shaking or trembling in your hands

These are the most common side effects, but there may be others. Please report all side effects to the doctor or nurse.

In case of a severe side effect or reaction, call the doctor, nurse, or pharmacist at 595-3300. If you are outside the Memphis area, dial toll-free 1-866-2STJUDE (1-866-278-5833), and press 0 once the call is connected.

Special instructions for mycophenolate mofetil

• Do not get pregnant while taking this medicine. This medicine may be harmful to an unborn baby. Use 2 effective forms of birth control before, while taking this medicine, and for 6 weeks after taking CellCept^®.
• Women of childbearing age should have a pregnancy test before taking this medicine.
• Talk with your doctor before taking this medicine if you have ulcers, stomach bleeding, or any other stomach problems, or if you have high blood pressure.
• Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms of an infection, such as fever or chills. Try to stay away from crowds and people with colds, flu, or other infections.
• As much as possible, avoid being in the sun while taking this medicine. Use a sunscreen and protect your skin with clothing when you are outside. Do not use tanning booths or sunlamps.
• If you miss a dose and the next dose is not due for at least 4 hours, take the missed dose right away. If the next dose is due in less than 4 hours, do not take the missed dose. Take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
• Some medicines may affect the way CellCept^® works or CellCept^® may affect the way these medicines work. They include:
  • Cholestyramine (Questran^®)
  • Azathioprine (Imuran^®)
  • Antacids (Tums^®, Maalox^®, Mylanta^®, or Amphojel^®)
• Always tell your doctor if you are taking these medicines or if you start taking any new medicine while taking CellCept^®.