Cellcept

Cellcept Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Cellcept is a brand name. Its generic name is Mycophenolic acid.

Mycophenolic Acid

Cellcept is an active metabolite of the immunosuppressant mycophenolate mofetil, used to treat autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.

Uses For

Cellcept is approved to:

• Treat transplant rejection in adults and in children ages 2 years and older.
• Prevent the recurrence of kidney allograft rejection in adults.

Mechanism of Action

Cellcept works by blocking an enzyme that is necessary for the body’s defense reaction to foreign substances. By blocking this enzyme, mycophenolic acid reduces the body’s ability to reject an organ transplant.

How Long Does it Take to Work

Cellcept can take several weeks to produce therapeutic benefits. However, if combined with other immunosuppressants, the onset of action of mycophenolic acid may be reduced.

Absorption

Cellcept is rapidly and completely absorbed after an oral dose. It is also well-absorbed following an intramuscular (IM) injection. The peak plasma concentrations of mycophenolic acid occur about two hours after ingestion.

Route of Elimination

Cellcept is readily eliminated by the kidney and has a half-life of about one hour.

Dosage

Cellcept is typically administered in an oral form or by intramuscular injection. The usual dose is two to three times daily, depending on the patient’s condition. The precise dosage and duration of treatment should be determined by a health care professional.

Administration

Cellcept is usually taken orally with food, or as an intramuscular injection. It is important to take mycophenolic acid at the same time each day to ensure consistent therapeutic effects.

Side-Effect

Cellcept can cause side effects including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, and fatigue.

Toxicity

Cellcept can build up in the bloodstream over time if too much is taken. This can lead to serious side effects and can even be fatal in some cases.

Precaution

It is important to closely follow the dosing instructions from your healthcare practitioner. Patients taking mycophenolic acid should also be aware of any potential drug-drug interactions, as mycophenolic acid may interact with other medications. It is also important to be aware of any potential food and drink interactions.

Interaction

Cellcept can interact with many other medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), statins, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, and herbal medicines. Cellcept can also interact with some vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Any medical treatments or surgeries being used should be discussed with your healthcare provider before taking mycophenolic acid.

Disease Interaction

Patients with certain diseases or conditions may be at increased risk for developing side effects or other complications. Therefore, it is important to discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider before taking mycophenolic acid.

Drug Interaction

Cellcept can interact with other medications. It is important to tell your healthcare provider about any drugs, over-the-counter products, or herbal supplements you are taking.

Food Interactions

Cellcept can interact with certain foods, such as milk, eggs, and soybeans. It is important to follow the dietary instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

Pregnancy Use

Cellcept is not recommended for use in pregnant women, as it can cause fetal harm. If you are pregnant and take mycophenolic acid, it is important to tracking your pregnancy with regular ultrasounds.

LactationUse

Cellcept is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women. It is important to do thorough research and consult with a healthcare professional prior to taking mycophenolic acid while breastfeeding.

Acute Overdose

If mycophenolic acid is taken in large doses, it can lead to serious health consequences such as vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, nausea, rash, and dizziness. If an overdose is suspected, medical attention should be sought immediately.

Contraindication

Cellcept is contraindicated in patients with a prior or current hypersensitivity reaction to the drug. It is also not recommended for use in patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment or in patients who are pregnant.

Use Direction

Cellcept should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider. The dosage and schedule of doses can vary depending on the condition being treated. Swallow the tablet whole and do not crush or chew. If an injection is prescribed, it should be administered intramuscularly. Cellcept should always be taken with food.

Storage Condition

Cellcept should be stored at room temperature and should be kept out of reach of children.

Volume Of Distribution

The volume of distribution of mycophenolic acid is 0.33 L/kg.

Half Life

The elimination half-life of mycophenolic acid is 1.0–2.0 hours.

Clearance

Cellcept is cleared from the body by the kidneys. Renal clearance is approximately 0.6 L/hr.

Here you find in details version of Cellcept

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Cellcept

What is Cellcept?

Cellcept is an immunosuppressive drug used after organ transplant to help prevent organ rejection. It is also used in the treatment of certain autoimmune diseases.

How does Cellcept work?

Cellcept works by blocking the action of an enzyme called inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH). This enzyme is involved in the production of DNA and RNA, which are essential components of cells. By blocking IMPDH, mycophenolic acid prevents the production of these molecules and in turn, reduces the activity of the immune system.

What are the side effects of Cellcept?

The most common side effects of mycophenolic acid include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, rash, and increased blood pressure. Other less common side effects include anemia, hair loss, kidney problems, and an increased risk of infections.

How long does Cellcept stay in the body?

The half-life of mycophenolic acid is roughly 2 to 5 hours. This means that the drug is eliminated from the body in about 10-20 hours.

Is Mycophenolate mofetil the same as Cellcept?

Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is the prodrug of mycophenolic acid and is converted to mycophenolic acid by the body when it is taken. Both MMF and mycophenolic acid have similar effects on the body, and therefore are often used interchangeably.

What is the recommended dosage of Cellcept?

The recommended dosage of mycophenolic acid varies depending on the specific condition being treated and the patient's age, weight, and other factors. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions when taking mycophenolic acid or any other medication.

Can Cellcept be taken with other medications?

Cellcept can interact with certain other medications, so it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any other medications while on mycophenolic acid. Some medications that can interact with mycophenolic acid include antibiotics, antifungals, malaria medications, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and some herbal supplements.

What is the generic name for Cellcept?

The generic name for mycophenolic acid is mycophenolate sodium.

Can Cellcept be taken during pregnancy?

Cellcept is not recommended for use during pregnancy. It can cause birth defects and fetal death. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should talk to their doctor before taking this medication.

Is Cellcept an anticoagulant?

No, mycophenolic acid is not an anticoagulant. It is an immunosuppressive drug used to help prevent organ rejection after transplantation or to treat certain autoimmune diseases.

Is Cellcept a steroid?

No, mycophenolic acid is not a steroid. It is an immunosuppressive drug used to help prevent organ rejection after transplantation or to treat certain autoimmune diseases.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Cellcept?

It is generally not recommended to drink alcohol while taking mycophenolic acid due to the risk of serious side effects. Talk to your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medication.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Cellcept?

If you miss a dose of mycophenolic acid, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Can I donate blood while taking Cellcept?

No, it is not recommended to donate blood while taking mycophenolic acid. This medication can pass into the blood and can have serious side effects in other people who receive the blood.

Can I take Cellcept if I am allergic to penicillin?

Yes, you can take mycophenolic acid if you are allergic to penicillin. This medication does not contain any components that could potentially cause an allergic reaction.

How often should I have my blood work checked while taking Cellcept?

It is recommended to have your blood work checked periodically while taking mycophenolic acid. Your doctor will determine the frequency and type of tests needed, depending on the condition being treated and individual patient factors.

Can I take Cellcept if I have high blood pressure?

Yes, you can take mycophenolic acid if you have high blood pressure. However, this medication can cause an increase in blood pressure, so it is important to monitor your blood pressure while taking mycophenolic acid.

Can I take ibuprofen while taking Cellcept?

No, it is generally not recommended to take ibuprofen while taking mycophenolic acid. Ibuprofen can decrease the effectiveness of mycophenolic acid, and can also increase the risk of serious side effects.

Can I take Cellcept if I have kidney disease?

Yes, you can take mycophenolic acid if you have kidney disease. However, kidney function should be monitored closely while taking this medication as it can cause decreased kidney function.

Can Cellcept be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis?

Yes, mycophenolic acid can be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. It has been found to reduce inflammation and joint pain associated with this condition.

Is Cellcept used to treat multiple sclerosis?

Yes, mycophenolic acid can be used to treat multiple sclerosis. It has been found to reduce the frequency of relapses and to slow the progression of the disease.

What is the price of Cellcept?

The price of mycophenolic acid varies depending on formulation, dosage, and the type of insurance coverage. Check with the pharmacy to find out the cost of this medication.

Is there an over the counter version of Cellcept?

No, there is no over the counter version of mycophenolic acid. This medication is available only with a prescription from your doctor.

Can Cellcept be taken with food?

Cellcept can be taken with or without food. However, it is important to take it at the same time each day, preferably with food, to maintain an even level of the drug in the body.

Can I get a generic version of Cellcept?

Yes, there is a generic version of mycophenolic acid available. It is made by several different manufacturers and is available in both pill and oral solution formulations.

What should I do if I experience side effects while taking Cellcept?

If you experience any serious or concerning side effects while taking mycophenolic acid, contact your doctor right away. Common side effects of this medication include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, rash, and increased blood pressure.

Can I take other supplements while taking Cellcept?

Before taking any supplements while taking mycophenolic acid, talk to your doctor first. Some supplements can interact with this medication, increasing the risk of serious side effects.

What should be avoided while taking Cellcept?

It is important to avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, and exposure to sunlight while taking mycophenolic acid, as these things can increase the risk of serious side effects. Talk to your doctor about any other things that should be avoided while taking this medication.

Does Cellcept contain gluten?

No, mycophenolic acid does not contain gluten. This medication is free of gluten, lactose, sugar, and other allergens.

Does Cellcept have black box warnings?

Yes, mycophenolic acid has black box warnings about the increased risk of adverse effects in the elderly and patients with kidney or liver dysfunction. Talk to your doctor about any risks associated with this medication.

Can I take acetaminophen while taking Cellcept?

Yes, you can take acetaminophen while taking mycophenolic acid. However, it is important to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before taking this combination of medications to avoid any potential interactions.

Will Cellcept show up on a drug test?

Yes, mycophenolic acid can show up on a drug test. It is important to inform the laboratory that is conducting the drug test that you are taking this medication, as it could potentially lead to false positives.

Can I take antacids while taking Cellcept?

Yes, you can take antacids while taking mycophenolic acid. However, it is important to separate the two medications by at least 2 hours to ensure that the full effects of mycophenolic acid are not reduced.

Does Cellcept cause weight gain?

Cellcept has been known to cause weight gain in some patients. Talk to your doctor if you experience any unexplained weight gain while taking this medication.

Can I take aspirin while taking Cellcept?

No, it is not recommended to take aspirin while taking mycophenolic acid due to potential interactions between the two medications. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have before taking aspirin while taking this medication.

Is Cellcept available in injection form?

No, mycophenolic acid is not available in injection form. This medication is available as tablets or oral solution.

Does Cellcept contain sulfates?

No, mycophenolic acid does not contain sulfates.

Can I take Cellcept while breastfeeding?

No, it is not recommended to take mycophenolic acid while breastfeeding due to an increased risk of serious side effects in the baby. Talk to your doctor before taking this medication while breastfeeding.

Can I take vitamins while taking Cellcept?

Yes, you can take vitamins while taking mycophenolic acid. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any vitamins, as some vitamins can interact with this medication.

What is the most common brand of Cellcept?

The most common brand of mycophenolic acid is CellCept. It is available in tablet and oral solution forms.