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Mycophenolate

Brand names: CellCept, Myfortic

Mycophenolate prevents transplant rejection and treats lupus kidney disease and other autoimmune conditions.

Brand namesCellCept, Myfortic
Type of medicineImmunosuppressant
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It's part of a safety program because it causes birth defects.

What it's used for

  • Preventing transplant rejection
  • Lupus nephritis (off-label)
  • Other autoimmune diseases

How to take it

  • Take it on an empty stomach, at the same times each day.
  • Swallow tablets and capsules whole.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Belly pain
Call your provider todayFever, chills, sore throat, or other signs of infection
Call your provider todayUnusual bruising or bleeding
Call your provider todayBlack or bloody stools

Warnings

  • Boxed warnings: birth defects and miscarriage, serious infections, and some cancers.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Antacids, PPIs, and cholestyramine lower absorption.
  • It can make hormonal birth control less effective.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

It causes miscarriage and birth defects. Use reliable birth control; tell your provider right away if pregnant.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.