CellCept (mycophenolate mofetil) is an immunosuppressant medicine used to prevent your body from rejecting a transplanted organ. It is used after kidney, heart, and liver transplants, typically in combination with other immunosuppressants such as ciclosporin or tacrolimus and corticosteroids.

How it works:

After a transplant, your immune system recognises the new organ as foreign and may try to attack it. CellCept works by blocking a key enzyme (IMPDH) that immune cells need to multiply. By reducing the number of immune cells available to attack the transplant, it lowers the risk of rejection and helps your body accept the new organ.

Your dose:

Your transplant team will determine the right dose for you based on the type of transplant and your overall health. Always follow their instructions exactly, as doses vary between individuals.

How to take it:

• Take CellCept at the same times each day, usually twice daily
• It is best taken on an empty stomach, but if it upsets your stomach, taking it with food is acceptable. Ask your transplant team what they recommend for you
• Swallow tablets or capsules whole. Do not crush, open, or chew them. The powder inside can be harmful if it contacts your skin or eyes
• If you accidentally open a capsule, avoid inhaling the powder and wash your skin with soap and water straight away

Important precautions:

• CellCept can cause serious birth defects. Women of childbearing age must use two forms of effective contraception before starting, throughout treatment, and for 6 weeks after stopping
• Men taking CellCept should also use contraception during treatment and for 90 days after stopping
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before starting this medicine

Ongoing check-ups:

Regular blood tests to check your blood counts and organ function are essential throughout treatment. These help your transplant team monitor for side effects and ensure your immune system is not being suppressed too much.

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, as long as it is not nearly time for your next dose
• If it is close to your next dose time, skip the missed one and continue your usual schedule
• Never take a double dose

Missing doses increases the risk of organ rejection. If you are struggling to take it consistently, speak to your transplant team.

If you think you have taken more than prescribed, call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department straight away.

Signs that something might be wrong include:

• Nausea, vomiting, or severe stomach pain
• Signs of infection: fever, chills, feeling very unwell

• Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
• Keep in the original packaging, away from moisture and light
• Do not store in the bathroom
• Keep out of reach of children and pets

Side effects are common.

The most important ones to know about are:

• Infections: Because CellCept suppresses your immune system, you are more susceptible to infections, including bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. Seek medical attention promptly if you develop a fever or feel unwell
• Gastrointestinal problems: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach pain are common, especially at the start. Taking it with food may help
• Low blood counts: CellCept can reduce white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. Regular blood tests catch this early
• Increased cancer risk: Long-term immunosuppression slightly increases the risk of certain cancers, particularly skin cancer and lymphoma. Use sunscreen and have regular skin checks
• Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML): A very rare but serious brain infection caused by the JC virus. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any new neurological symptoms such as confusion, weakness, or vision changes

Contact your transplant team or doctor if any side effect concerns you.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist everything you are taking. Key interactions include:

• Antacids containing aluminium or magnesium: Reduce CellCept absorption. Do not take them at the same time
• Proton pump inhibitors (such as omeprazole, pantoprazole): Can reduce the amount of CellCept absorbed
• Cholestyramine and some antibiotics: Can reduce CellCept levels in the blood
• Other immunosuppressants: Your transplant team will carefully manage combinations to balance efficacy and safety
• Live vaccines: Avoid live vaccines during treatment

Never start, stop, or change any medicine without speaking to your transplant team first.

How long will I need to take CellCept?

CellCept is usually a lifelong medicine after a transplant. Stopping it increases the risk of organ rejection. Your transplant team will review your dose over time, but it is important not to stop taking it without their guidance.

Can I get vaccinated while on CellCept?

You can receive inactivated (non-live) vaccines, but live vaccines must be avoided. Because CellCept suppresses your immune system, your response to vaccines may be reduced. Speak to your transplant team before any vaccination.

Does CellCept affect pregnancy?

Yes, significantly. CellCept is associated with a high risk of serious birth defects and pregnancy loss. This is one of the most important risks associated with this medicine. Women of childbearing age must use reliable contraception during treatment and for 6 weeks after stopping. Discuss alternative immunosuppressants with your transplant team if you are planning a pregnancy.

Ace provides accurate and independent information medically reviewed on prescription medications. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.