Print Friendly Page

Health Information

Chapters

Lupus Guide

PDF Version of this Document Order this publication

Publication Date: May 2001
Revised September 2006

Lupus: A Patient Care Guide for Nurses and Other Health Professionals
3rd Edition

Patient Information Sheet #19, Mycophenolate Mofetil (CellCept®)

Mycophenolate mofetil (CellCept®) is a drug that was developed to suppress the immune system, thereby preventing the rejection of transplanted organs. It is also used in lupus to slow down the immune system, particularly if inflammation threatens internal organs such as the kidneys.

CellCept® is a powerful drug. It can have a number of effects on the body. As a result, it is important that you understand how it is used to treat your lupus. You will need to work closely with your doctor and nurse and undergo regular lab tests to make sure that the amount of the drug you are taking gives you the benefits you need with as few side effects as possible.

Instructions

The strength or dose of the CellCept® ordered for you is __________________.

Take the CellCept® ______ time(s) per week.

The best time(s) to take your CellCept®:__________________

Take your medication at the same time(s) each day. Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of a water.

Additional Instructions:

Possible Side Effects

These include abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, fever, headache, high blood pressure, nausea, respiratory infection, swelling of hands and feet, and urinary tract infection.

Tell your nurse or doctor right away if you have any side effects.

Precautions

Do not take more than the recommended dose.

Avoid exposure to infections. Stay away from crowds and people known to have colds, the flu, or other infections. Let your doctor or nurse know if you experience symptoms of infection.

Tell any nurse, doctor, or dentist who is taking care of you that you are taking CellCept® for your lupus.

WARNING!

Cellcept® can never be taken during pregnancy.