Mycophenolic acid is used on its own or together with other medicines to prevent the rejection of organ after a transplant.
This medicine may also be used to treat certain immune system disorders such as lupus.
Mycophenolic acid may be used to treat other conditions as decided by your doctor.
Take Mycophenolic acid exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Take it on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Try to take it at the same time each day.
This medicine is available as capsule, tablet or suspension.
If you are taking the delayed-release type of tablet, swallow it whole. Do not divide, chew or crush the tablet.
If you are taking an oral suspension, shake the bottle well before you take it to ensure that the liquid is evenly mixed. Use the measuring spoon or cup provided to measure your dose.
There is a specific dosage recommendation for each formulation and brand of this medicine. Different preparation of this medicine cannot be substituted for each other. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the type and severity of your condition.
Mycophenolic acid must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to use your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Do not take Mycophenolic acid if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby soon. If you become pregnant while being treated with this medicine, alert your doctor immediately. This medicine may cause harm to your unborn child. You must use proven birth control methods while taking Mycophenolic acid.
Do not breastfeed while you are being treated with this medicine.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- stomach ulcers
- kidney disease
- hereditary deficiency of certain enzyme such as hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HGPRT)
Do not receive any vaccinations without first asking your doctor.
This medicine may cause sensitivity to light. Apply sunscreen when going outdoors and avoid direct or prolonged exposure to sunlight and UV lamps.
If you are going for an operation, including minor surgery and dental work, inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking this medicine.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- You may need to have routine tests (e.g. blood test, liver or kidney function test) before and during treatment. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
- You may need to regularly monitor for any signs of infections.
- Pregnancy tests may be done prior to initiation and during the medication.
Mycophenolic acid may cause any of the following side effects: headache, diarrhoea, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, constipation, tiredness, cough, difficulty sleeping, increased in blood pressure, back pain, muscle pain and joint pain.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- signs of infection e.g. fever, chills, sweating, sore throat, mouth sore
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- skin growth, lesion or bump, swelling of the lymph node, change in the size or color of mole
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicines for viral infection e.g. aciclovir, ganciclovir
- stomach medicines e.g. aluminum and magnesium-containing antacids
- other medicines for organ transplant rejection or certain immune system disorders e.g. tacrolimus, azathioprine
- cholesterol-lowering medicine e.g. colestyramine
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Mycophenolic acid.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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