Transplant Unit

Why is mycophenolate mofetil prescribed?

Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is a potent immunosuppressive drug. It suppresses the blood cells which trigger a rejection response to the transplanted organ. It is important to continue taking MMF regularly to help prevent rejection of your transplanted organ.

Before taking mycophenolate mofetil

Because Mycophenolate may damage a unborn baby it should not be taken if you are pregnant or planning to start a family in the near future. Tell your doctor straight away if you become pregnant. Use contraception whilst taking Mycophenolate and for 6 weeks after you have stopped taking it.

How to take mycophenolate mofetil

Your doctor will tell you how much Mycophenolate to take. The usual dose is 1 gram (four 250mg capsules or two 500mg tablets) TWICE a day.

Swallow the capsules whole with a glass of water on an empty stomach.

What to do if you miss a dose

If you forget a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, miss out the forgotten dose and continue as normal. If you do miss a dose or accidentally take a larger dose than recommended let the transplant team know at your next clinic visit.

Possible side effects of mycophenolate mofetil

As with all medication side effects are possible. This means that you may experience some or none of the following:

• Stomach upset. You may experience sickness or diarrhoea.
• Mycophenolate can harm the bone marrow’s ability to produce blood cells. Your blood cell count will be monitored via your blood test results.
• Mouth sores. Use soft toothbrushes , good oral hygiene and regular six monthly dental check-ups.
• Increased risk of developing infections may occur with all anti-rejection drugs. Report any signs of infection (e.g. sore throat) to your doctor.
• Increased risk of developing skin lesions may occur with all anti-rejection drugs. Use a sunscreen protection factor 15 or higher. Report any skin lesions or lumps to your doctor.

Mycophenolate mofetil is also known as Cellcept® or MMF