All patients who have a kidney transplant need to take drugs called immuno-suppressants. As the name immuno-suppressant suggests, the function of these drugs is to suppress the immune system, the body’s natural defence system. the aim is to dampen down the immune system enough to stop it rejecting the transplant kidney while still keeping it active enough to fight infections.
Mycophenolate belongs to this group of medicines. It is only available from your doctor.
There are 2 preparations of mycophenolate, called Cellcept and Myofortic. The transplant unit will advise which you are to take. You must not switch between the two preparations of the drug unles the transplant unit advises you to do so.
A vaccine is an injection to prevent you getting that disease. You should NOT be vaccinated with some vaccines whilst receiving Mycophenolate. For vaccines you can and cannot have, see the vaccine page.
Your recommended daily dose should be divided and taken as equal doses in the morning and evening (12 hours apart).
Take the capsules exactly as your doctor asked you, never change the dose yourself. If you accidentally take an extra dose, tell your doctor immediately, if you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for the next dose, then go on as before.
If you stop taking Mycophenolate you will lose your new kidney.
You will need to have regular blood samples taken and your medication may need to be adjusted according to your blood test.
Mycophenolate may cause side effects in some people. the most common side effects include diarrhoea, feeling sick, trembling, headaches and dizziness. Other side effects include problems with the blood. As with any immuno-suppressive drug you are more likely to develop infections and any infections may be worse than normal, you should report any signs of infection to your doctor.
Some other drugs may cause problems with Mycophenolate, these include Indigestion remedies, Aciclovir, Probenecid and Cholestyramine. This is not a full list so always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medication along with Mycophenolate.
It is best to AVOID sunbathing and to use a sunblock in sunny weather. You are recommended to see your doctor about regular skin checks and cervical smears for women. This is because you are more likely to develop skin or cervical cancers, though these are not serious if noticed early.
Always take Mycophenolate as directed by your doctor and only stop them on the advice of your doctor.
All tablets may cause side effects in some people. If you think that you are suffering from a side effect of one of your tablets it is important NOT to stop taking the tablet, but see your doctor who may be able to change that tablet for one which will suit you better.
Store the capsules in their original container in a cool, dry place away from children. Only remove the capsules from the blister pack when it is time to take them.
NKF Controlled Document No. 75, Mycophenolate, written 10 March 2001. Last reviewed 10 March 2008.
The National Kidney Federation cannot accept responsibility for information provided. The above is for guidance only. Patients are advised to seek further information from their own doctor.
Page created: 10 March 2001
Last updated: 10 March 2008
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