How is Mycophenolate stored?

The tablets should be stored at room temperature. Keep out of reach from children.

Does Mycophenolates affect pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Mycophenolate can cause miscarriages and birth defects and should NOT be used by pregnant women. It is necessary for both men and women to ensure contraception during treatment and for three months after stopping. Therefore, please discuss plans for pregnancy with your doctor. You must not take Mycophenolate unless you are on reliable contraception. Breast-feeding is generally not advisable.

Can I have immunisations while on Mycophenolate?

Pneumococcal, influenza, hepatitis A and B, tetanus vaccinations are allowed. Avoid immunisations with live vaccines such as polio, varicella (chicken pox), measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).

Are there any alternatives to Mycophenolate?

Your doctor will advise you on the safest and most effective option. If you have any concerns, do raise them with your doctor.

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The information provided in this publication is meant purely for educational purposes and may not be used as a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. You should seek the advice of your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider before starting any treatment or if you have any questions related to your health, physical fitness or medical conditions. Information is correct at time of printing (Month/Year) and subject to revision without prior notice.

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Medication Information
for Patients

MYCOPHENOLATE


Why am I being prescribed Mycophenolate?

Mycophenolate works by modifying your immune system's response to various diseases. It is used to treat different types of autoimmune diseases including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), inflammation of the kidneys (glomerulonephritis), and is used in combination with other agents in prevention of organ transplant rejection.

How do I take Mycophenolate?

Mycophenolate is taken orally as twice daily dosing. The tablets should be swallowed whole with a glassful of water. You can take it before or after meals but you should be consistent in one or the other. You should also take it at regular timings with a 12 hour interval between doses.

What dose do I take?

Mycophenolate comes in two different formulations: Mycophenolate Mofetil (Cellcept), and enteric-coated Mycophenolate Sodium (Myfortic Acid). Your doctor may prescribe either, and the dosage is adjusted based on your medical condition, weight, response to therapy, side effects, and other drugs or treatment you may be receiving. The day and night doses may differ slightly. Do not adjust your dose or take this medication more often without your doctor's approval.

When does Mycophenolate work?

The effects of Azathioprine will not be visible immediately. It may take six weeks or more before you notice any benefit, provided you take your medication as prescribed.

What are the possible risks I can expect while taking Mycophenolate?

Side effects / Warning signs / Things you need to do
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal (stomach) discomfort / Speak to your doctor. He/she may examine for alternative causes, and may change to a new formulation.
Low blood counts, especially anaemia / Easy fatigue, lethargy, sore throat, easy bleeding or bruising / Do regular blood count monitoring as advised. These effects however may also be related to underlying illness or acquired infection.
Risk of infection – fever, common flu or gastric flu / Consult your doctor early, especially if you come in contact with others with chicken pox or shingles. Please discuss any planned vaccinations with your doctor.
Opportunistic or unusual infections / Unexplained fever, low blood counts, shivers, malaise, breathlessness / Seek medical consult EARLY. Avoid close contact with people with coughs/colds and wear a mask. Avoid raw food.
Increased risk of fetal loss and malformation / Contraception is strictly advised. Consult your doctor about pregnancy plans. Breast-feeding is generally not advised.
May increase risk of certain cancers / Regular age-appropriate cancer screening is advised.

Please seek medical attention if you experience any of the above symptoms.

Do I have to do any blood tests while taking Mycophenolate?

Mycophenolate may occasionally cause low blood counts. These are usually reversible if detected early. Your doctor will arrange blood tests before and during treatment regularly. It is not safe to continue Mycophenolate if you do not come for regular blood checks.

Are there any medications to avoid while on Mycophenolate?

Generally, you should show your doctor and pharmacist all other medications and supplements you are taking or planning to take.

May I drink alcohol while on Mycophenolate?

General advice to moderate consumption applies, and there is no reason to avoid alcohol.

Are there any other precautions while taking Mycophenolate?

Due to higher risk of new and worsening infection, avoid close contact with people with coughs or colds and avoid raw food. Age-appropriate cancer screenings are advised.

What if I forget or miss a dose?

Take the dose as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the next dose to make up for the missed dose.