CellCept (Mycophenolate Mofetil)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is CellCept Used For?
CellCept contains mycophenolate mofetil and is primarily used to prevent the rejection of transplanted organs by suppressing the immune response.
Primary Uses
CellCept is used to prevent organ rejection in transplant patients.
How It Works
It works by inhibiting the immune system's response to the transplanted organ.
Good to know: CellCept is not addictive.
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How to Take CellCept
Follow your doctor's instructions on how to take CellCept, which can be in the form of capsules, tablets, suspension, or infusion.
Dosage Instructions
Typical doses range from 1 g to 1.5 g taken twice daily for capsules/tablets, or 2 g to 3 g daily for suspension, depending on the organ transplanted.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's close to the next dose. Do not double up.
Important: Never take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- diarrhoea
- constipation
- nausea
- vomiting
- indigestion
- stomach pain
- headache
- urinary infections
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- infections
- unexpected bruising or bleeding
- signs of anaemia (excessive tiredness, dizziness)
- swelling of hands or ankles
- allergic reactions (chest tightness, difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat)
- chronic cough with blood
Impulse Control Issues
Patients may experience impulse control issues; consult your doctor if you notice any concerning behaviors.
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings to consider before taking CellCept.
Who Should Not Take CellCept
Do not take CellCept if you are allergic to mycophenolate mofetil, pregnant, breastfeeding, or not using two reliable forms of contraception if you could become pregnant.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any history of skin cancers, low blood counts, serious stomach issues, kidney disease, or if you have phenylketonuria.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
CellCept can harm an unborn baby and may pass into breast milk, so inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Elderly patients may have an increased risk of side effects due to immunosuppression.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with CellCept and affect its efficacy.
Grapefruit interaction: Grapefruit may affect how CellCept works.
- azathioprine
- tacrolimus
- sirolimus
- acyclovir
- ganciclovir
- valaciclovir
- valganciclovir
- isavuconazole
- antacids
- cholestyramine
- ciprofloxacin
- amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid
- norfloxacin plus metronidazole
- rifampicin
- iron supplements
- certain vaccines
- proton-pump inhibitors
- telmisartan
- calcium-free phosphate binders
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and driving while taking CellCept.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor about alcohol use while on CellCept.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how CellCept affects you.
Storage
Store CellCept capsules and tablets in a cool, dry place below 25°C. Keep the suspension below 30°C, and discard it after 60 days once mixed.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical help by contacting the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 or visiting the nearest hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
CellCept may take several days to weeks to show its full effect in preventing organ rejection.
You can take CellCept with or without food, but try to take it at the same time each day.
No, CellCept is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking CellCept without consulting your doctor, as it may lead to organ rejection.
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while on CellCept.
Weight gain is not commonly reported as a side effect of CellCept.
Elderly patients should be monitored closely for side effects due to increased risk.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.