Mycophenolate mofetil lowers your body's immune system. The immune system helps your body fight infections. The immune system can also fight or "reject" a transplanted organ such as a liver or kidney. This is because the immune system treats the new organ as an invader.

 

Mycophenolate mofetil is used to prevent your body from rejecting a kidney, liver, or heart transplant. This medication is usually given with cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral) and a steroid medication.

 

Mycophenolate mofetil may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger or smaller amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor.

 

Mycophenolate mofetil is usually given twice a day. Follow your doctor's instructions. The injection form of this medication is given through a needle placed into a vein. The injection is usually given within 24 hours after your transplant. You may be given the injection for up to 14 days before you switch to the oral (pill) form of mycophenolate mofetil.

 

Take each oral dose with a full glass of water. Take mycophenolate mofetil oral medication on an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Shake the mycophenolate mofetil oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. To be sure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one. Do not open the mycophenolate mofetil capsule or crush or chew a tablet. Do not use a pill that has been accidentally broken. The medicine from a crushed or broken pill can be dangerous if it gets in your eyes, mouth, or nose, or on your skin. If it does come in contact with these areas, wash your skin with soap and water or rinse your eyes with water. Ask your doctor or pharmacist how to safely handle and dispose of a broken tablet or capsule.

 

This medication can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill. You may also have an increased risk of certain forms of cancer. To be sure your blood cells do not get too low, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

 

Store mycophenolate mofetil at room temperature away from moisture and heat. The oral suspension may be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Do not allow the suspension to freeze. Throw away any unused suspension after 60 days.

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

 

Symptoms of a mycophenolate mofetil overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, unusual bleeding or bruising, and signs of infection.

Use two forms of birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using this medication, and for at least 6 weeks after your treatment ends. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.

 

Avoid contact with people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection.

 

Do not receive a "live" vaccine while you are being treated with this medication. The vaccine may not be as effective in your body.

 

If you need to have any type of surgery, you may need to temporarily stop using mycophenolate mofetil. Be sure the surgeon knows ahead of time that you are using this medication.

 

Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). Mycophenolate mofetil can increase your risk of skin cancer. Use a sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing if you must be out in the sun.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using mycophenolate mofetil and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

Continue using mycophenolate mofetil and talk with your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects: