CellCept

Generic name: Mycophenolate mofetil

What is CellCept?

CellCept is indicated for the prevention of organ rejection in patients receiving kidney, heart, and liver transplants. It is used together with corticosteroids and cyclosporine.

What is the most important information I should know about CellCept?

The use of CellCept and other immunosuppressive drugs increases the susceptibility to infection and lymphomas. It is important that the qualified doctor follow up on the patient.

Any female with childbearing potential must use highly effective (two methods) contraception 4 weeks prior to starting CellCept therapy and continue contraception until 6 weeks after stopping CellCept treatment, unless abstinence is the chosen method of contraception.

Who should not take CellCept?

Patients with hypersensitivity to CellCept and the ingredients in this preparation should not take this medication.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of CellCept?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with CellCept. Also, talk to your doctor about you complete medical history, especially if you are or plan on becoming pregnant.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Heart Transplant

Adults: The usual dose is 1.5 grams (g) given intravenously (IV) or by mouth twice daily.

Liver Transplant

Adults: The usual dose is 1 g IV twice daily, or 1.5 g taken by mouth twice daily.

Kidney Transplant

Adults: The usual dose is 1 g IV or taken by mouth twice daily.

Children (Oral suspension): The usual dose is 600 milligrams (mg)/m² twice daily; the maximum dose is 2g/10 milliliters (ml).

How should I take CellCept?

Take CellCept on an empty stomach with a full glass of water.

What should I avoid while taking CellCept?

Due to an increased risk for infection and diseases, you should avoid vaccinations (live vaccines), pregnancy, excessive sunlight, and concomitant use with azathioprine.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with CellCept?

If CellCept is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining CellCept with the following: acyclovir, antacids such as aluminum and magnesium, cholestyramine, cyclosporine, ganciclovir, iron, live vaccines, metronidazole, norfloxacin, oral contraceptives, rifampin, sevelamer, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole.

What are the possible side effects of CellCept?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, headache, hypertension, excess fluid, leucopenia, cough, increased susceptibility to infection, pain, hyperglycemia, insomnia

Can I receive CellCept if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of CellCept on pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Effective contraception (at least two methods) is required (beginning 4 weeks before therapy and continuing for 6 weeks after CellCept has stopped).

What should I do if I miss a dose of CellCept?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time of your next dose, skip it and resume your scheduled dose. Do not double your dose.

How should I store CellCept?

Store at room temperature and away from children. Protect from light and moisture.

The suspension should also be kept at room temperature. For the suspension, discard any unused portion after 60 days.