GENERIC NAME: MYCOPHENOLATE MOFETIL SUSPENSION - ORAL (my-coh-FEN-oh-late MOW-fet-ill)
BRAND NAME(S): Cellcept
Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
WARNING: Mycophenolate decreases the body's ability to protect against illness/infections and may increase your risk of developing lymph node tumors (lymphomas). Therefore, this medication must only be taken under close medical supervision. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop any signs of infection (e.g., persistent sore throat or fever), weight loss, night sweats, enlarged lymph nodes, or skin growths.
USES: Mycophenolate is used to prevent rejection of transplanted body organs (e.g., kidney, liver, or heart transplant). It works by suppressing the body's immune system and is usually used along with other drugs that suppress the immune system (e.g., cyclosporine, prednisone).
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth usually twice daily without food; or take as directed by your doctor. The dosage and length of treatment is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Shake the bottle well before each dose. Be careful not to get any of the suspension on your skin or mucous membranes (e.g., eyes, open wounds). If such contact should occur, wash the affected skin area well with soap and water or rinse your eyes with plain water. Consult your pharmacist for details. This medication is usually prescribed along with other medications (e.g., cyclosporine, corticosteroids) to prevent rejection of transplanted organs. Take all medications exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you are unclear about any of the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Avoid taking antacids containing magnesium or aluminum within 2 hours of taking this medicine. Antacids may affect the absorption of this medication if taken together.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, white patches in the mouth or on the tongue (thrush), diarrhea, headache, acne, or mild dizziness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: pain, sores around the mouth or genitals, vision changes, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, mental/mood changes, trouble sleeping, unusual bleeding or bruising, pain with urination, change in the amount of urine. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: black/bloody stools, swollen glands, stomach pain, unusual weakness or tiredness, night sweats, unusual lumps or changes in skin color/appearance. This medication can lower the body's ability to fight an infection. Notify your doctor promptly if you develop any signs of an infection such as: fever, chills, persistent sore throat, cough. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if they occur. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice any other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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