Mycophenolate Sodium

If you have recently undergone a kidney transplant, you will likely need to take an anti-rejection medication such as mycophenolate sodium. This medicine is sold in two strengths, both of which come as a delayed-release tablet. Most people take this drug twice a day. Diarrhea, constipation, and nausea are some of the most commonly reported side effects.

What Is Mycophenolate Sodium?

Mycophenolate sodium (Myfortic®) is a prescription medication approved to prevent transplant rejection after a renal transplant (kidney transplant). It is used in combination with cyclosporine (Gengraf®, Neoral®, Sandimmune®) and a corticosteroid (such as prednisone).
 
Mycophenolate, the active ingredient in the medication, is also available as mycophenolate mofetil in CellCept®. Mycophenolate sodium and CellCept are similar medicines. However, they are absorbed differently by the body, and therefore are not directly interchangeable. Do not switch from one form of mycophenolate to another without first talking to your healthcare provider.
 
(Click What Is Mycophenolate Sodium Used For? for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Are There Side Effects?

Just like any immunosuppressant medicine, mycophenolate sodium can cause side effects, some of which can be significant. Although not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems, many people will experience some type of adverse reaction during treatment.
 
Some of the common side effects of this medication may include:
 
(Click Mycophenolate Sodium Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH, BCPP
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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