CellCept capsules are a biologic immunosuppressant medication used to prevent the body's rejection of transplanted organs. These capsules contain the active ingredient mycophenolate mofetil, which is available in 250 mg or 500 mg strengths. Mycophenolate mofetil belongs to a class of medications called immunosuppressants. This medication helps preserve the transplanted organ and prevent its rejection by the patient's immune system, contributing to the long-term success of transplantation.
What are the ingredients in CellCept?
CellCept capsules contain the following active ingredient:
Mycophenolate mofetil: in 250 mg or 500 mg strengths.
In addition to this active ingredient, the capsules contain inactive ingredients to form the capsule.
Indications for Use of CellCept
CellCept capsules are used for:
Preventing organ transplant rejection: especially after kidney, heart, or liver transplantation. It is usually used in combination with other immunosuppressive medications (such as corticosteroids, cyclosporine, or tacrolimus).
The treatment aims to suppress the patient's immune system to prevent the body from rejecting the transplanted organ, thus improving the transplant outcome.
What are the dosages of CellCept?
CellCept capsules should be taken as directed by a specialist physician and under their close supervision. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the type of organ being transplanted, the patient's weight, and any other immunosuppressive medications they are taking.
The usual adult dosage after a kidney transplant is 1 gram (1000 mg) twice daily, equivalent to 2 grams daily.
After a heart transplant: 1.5 grams (1500 mg) twice daily, equivalent to 3 grams daily.
After a liver transplant: 1 gram (1000 mg) twice daily orally.
The medication is usually taken on an empty stomach to ensure optimal absorption, unless otherwise directed by the physician.
The capsule should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. It should not be opened or crushed.
It is very important to adhere to the prescribed doses and to schedule regular doctor visits for necessary tests, blood drug levels monitoring, and side effects.
This medication is a long-term treatment and should not be stopped suddenly without consulting a doctor.
What are the side effects of CellCept?
CellCept capsules may cause several side effects, most of which are dose-related and temporary, while some may be serious and require close monitoring:
Common side effects:
Gastrointestinal disturbances: such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or constipation. These side effects are very common, especially at the beginning of treatment.
Increased risk of infection: Due to the suppression of the immune system, the patient becomes more susceptible to bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.
Headache.
High blood pressure.
Anemia or a decrease in the number of white blood cells or platelets.
You should inform your doctor immediately if you experience any severe, persistent, or unusual side effects, especially any signs of infection (fever, chills, extreme tiredness), unexplained bleeding, bruising, or severe abdominal pain.