Immunosuppressant
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Mycophenolate mofetil (sold as Cellcept) is a medicine that weakens your immune system on purpose so that your body does not attack and reject a transplanted organ like a kidney, heart, or liver.
Inhibits inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH), an enzyme essential for guanine nucleotide synthesis in T and B lymphocytes, thereby selectively suppressing proliferation of these immune cells and preventing organ rejection.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
For kidney transplant patients, the usual adult dose is 1g (two 500mg tablets) taken twice daily — morning and evening, making it 2g per day. Swallow the tablets whole on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after food) for best absorption. Do not crush or open the capsules. Take it at the same times every day as prescribed by your transplant doctor.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for it. This medicine must be taken consistently to protect your transplanted organ.
This is a strictly prescription-only medicine used after organ transplants — never buy it from roadside vendors or use someone else's supply. Do not stop taking it on your own even if you feel fine, as your body could reject the transplanted organ. Always get your regular blood tests as your transplant doctor requires, so they can monitor how your body is responding.
Do not take antacids containing magnesium or aluminium (like Gestid) at the same time — space them at least 2 hours apart. Acyclovir (used for infections) can interact with this drug and affect your kidneys. Avoid taking it together with azathioprine (another immune-suppressing drug). Always tell your doctor about every medicine you are taking, including herbal remedies.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Mycophenolate with your other drugs?
This drug is NOT safe during pregnancy — it can cause miscarriage and serious birth defects. Women must use two reliable forms of contraception before, during, and for 6 weeks after stopping treatment, and it should be avoided during breastfeeding.
Store at room temperature (below 30°C). Keep away from direct sunlight, heat, and damp areas — avoid storing in bathrooms or kitchens. Keep well out of the reach of children, as this drug can be very dangerous if taken by someone it was not prescribed for.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.