Indications
Myfortic is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient mycophenolic acid, which is an immunosuppressant drug that is used to prevent the rejection of an organ transplant. It works by inhibiting the proliferation of T and B lymphocytes, which are involved in the immune response that can cause the rejection of transplanted organs.
Myfortic is a delayed-release tablet that is used for the prophylaxis of organ rejection in adult patients receiving a kidney transplant. By lowering the immune system, Myfortic may make it easier for your body to get infected with bacteria, fungi, or viruses that it would usually fight off. Despite this risk, Myfortic is still used because preventing organ rejection is the primary goal.
Uses and Dosage
Myfortic is available in tablet form and should be taken orally as prescribed by your doctor. Typically, the medication is taken twice a day on an empty stomach, either 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals, and the tablets should be swallowed whole rather than crushed or chewed. Avoid direct contact with the tablets and wash your skin or eyes with soap and water or plain water immediately if contact occurs.
Pregnant women or women who may become pregnant should not handle this medication or breathe in the dust from the tablets due to potential harm to an unborn baby. Your dosage will depend on your medical condition, response to treatment, and body size. Take Myfortic regularly and at the same time every day to get the most benefit. Even if you start feeling better, do not stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor first.
The typical dosing for Myfortic, which contains the active ingredient mycophenolic acid, varies based on age and weight. Adults are typically prescribed a dose of 720 mg by mouth twice daily, while children aged 5 and older will receive a dose based on their height and weight that is also given twice a day. For children, each dose will not exceed 720 mg.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Myfortic (Mycophenolic acid):
- Anxiety
- Back pain
- Blurred vision
- Constipation
- Cough
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Joint or muscle pain
- Nausea
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sleep problems (insomnia)
- Stomach pain
- Swelling in your hands
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
Serious Side Effects of Myfortic (Mycophenolic acid):
- Body aches
- Chills
- Fever
- Flu symptoms
- Hot and dry skin
- Increased urination
- Mouth sores
- Painful or difficult urination
- Pale skin
- Problems with vision, speech, balance, or memory
- Thirst
- White patches in your mouth or throat
Form and Strength
Myfortic (Mycophenolic acid) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Myfortic: Delayed Release Tablet
- 180 mg
- 360 mg
Mycophenolic acid: Tablet
- 360 mg
Caution
- Only physicians experienced in immunosuppressive therapy and management of organ transplant patients should prescribe Myfortic.
- Myfortic should be used with caution in patients with a history of peptic ulcer disease or gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Myfortic may increase the risk of severe infections, including opportunistic infections, and may increase the risk of lymphoma and other malignancies.
- Patients taking Myfortic should be closely monitored for any signs of abnormal bleeding or bruising, as well as for infections, gastrointestinal symptoms, or other adverse effects.
- Myfortic may interact with other medications, so patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking before beginning treatment with Myfortic.
- Myfortic may cause fetal harm and should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks to the fetus.
- Myfortic may also be excreted in breast milk and could potentially harm a nursing infant, so nursing mothers should consult their healthcare provider before taking Myfortic.
- Myfortic can cause serious and potentially life-threatening side effects, including gastrointestinal bleeding, acute renal failure, and bone marrow suppression.
- Patients taking Myfortic should avoid exposure to sunlight, as it can increase the risk of skin cancer and other skin-related disorders.
- Myfortic may also cause anemia or leukopenia (low white blood cell count), so patients should be monitored for signs of infection or other blood-related disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I stop taking Myfortic if I feel better?
You should not stop taking Myfortic without first discussing it with your doctor. Stopping this medication abruptly could increase the risk of transplant rejection.
Is it safe to use Myfortic if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Myfortic should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless specifically recommended by your doctor. This medication may harm a developing fetus or breastfed infant.
How should I store Myfortic?
Myfortic should be stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.
Will Myfortic interfere with other medications I am taking?
Myfortic may interact with certain medications, including antacids, magnesium-containing products, and cholestyramine. Be sure to tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before you start taking Myfortic.
Resources
- https://www.news-medical.net/drugs/Myfortic.aspx
- https://www.goodrx.com/myfortic/what-is
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=eed26501-890d-4ff6-88e7-6dbea4726e53
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-78665/myfortic-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/myfortic.html
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/050791s007lbl.pdf
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