text:
MYCOPHENOLATE MOFETIL (mye koe FEN oh late MOE fe til) is used to decrease the immune system's response to a transplanted organ.
Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medicine on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food. Do not take with food unless your doctor approves. Swallow the medicine whole. Do not cut, crush, or chew the medicine. If the medicine is broken or is not intact, do not get the powder on your skin or eyes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.
A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
bloody, dark, or tarry stools
changes in vision
fever, chills or any other sign of infection
unusual bleeding or bruising
unusually weak or tired
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
difficulty sleeping
loss of appetite
nausea, vomiting
acyclovir or valacyclovir
birth control pills
certain antibiotics like ciprofloxacin and amoxicillin; clavulanic acid
ganciclovir or valganciclovir
lanthanum carbonate
medicines for cholesterol like cholestyramine and colestipol
other mycophenolate medicines
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
anemia or other blood disorder
immune system problems
kidney disease
stomach problems
an unusual or allergic reaction to mycophenolate mofetil, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. You will need frequent blood checks during the first few months you are receiving the medicine.
This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.
This medicine can cause birth defects. Do not get pregnant while taking this drug. Females will need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this medicine. If sexually active, use 2 reliable forms of birth control together for 4 weeks before starting this medicine, while you are taking this medicine, and for 6 weeks after you stop taking this medicine. Birth control pills alone may not work properly while you are taking this medicine. If you think that you might be pregnant talk to your doctor right away.
If you get a cold or other infection while receiving this medicine, call your doctor or health care professional. Do not treat yourself. The medicine may decrease your body's ability to fight infections.