About this leaflet

This information leaflet has been written to help you to understand more about your Mycophenolate Mofitil (MMF) medication and to help answer some of your questions. We also recommend you read the information leaflet enclosed with your medication for more detail.

What is MMF and why am I taking it?

Mycophenolate Mofetil (commonly called MMF) is a medication from the group called immunosuppressants. These medicines help calm down the immune system when it becomes overactive.

You’ve been prescribed MMF to treat inflammation caused by your immune system as a result of immunotherapy-related toxicity. MMF helps reduce damage from inflammation and can be used on its own or alongside other medications.

How do I take MMF?

  • MMF is taken by mouth in the form of tablets, capsules, or liquid.
  • Take it with food to help reduce stomach upset.
  • Swallow tablets or capsules whole – do not crush or chew them.
  • Take MMF twice daily – once in the morning and once in the evening.
  • You’ll usually start on a low dose, which may be adjusted depending on how well the treatment is working.

Do not stop taking MMF unless told to by your healthcare team.

If you run low or need a new prescription, please contact your healthcare team.Your GP may not be able to prescribe MMF.

If you have any difficulties getting your medication, please call The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre's 24-hour Patient Hotline on 0800 169 5555.

Monitoring while on MMF

Regular monthly blood tests will be necessary to ensure appropriate monitoring during the course of your treatment with this medication, as it can affect blood cell counts and organ function.

Are there any possible side effects to MMF?

Like all medications, MMF can cause side effects, but not everyone will experience them.

Common side effects include:

  • Feeling tired or fatigued
  • Mouth sores, ulcers, or white patches

Contact your healthcare team if you notice:

  • Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain or diarrhoea
  • Headaches
  • Signs of infection (fever, chills, sore throat)
  • Easy bruising or unexplained bleeding

For full details on possible side effects, please refer to the manufacturer's patient information leaflet provided with your medication.

Important information about taking MMF

If you feel unwell at any time while taking MMF, please contact The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre's 24-hour Patient Hotline on 0800 169 5555 for support and advice.

Vaccination advice

While taking MMF, you can safely receive the following recommended vaccines:

  • Flu vaccine
  • COVID-19 vaccine
  • Pneumococcal vaccine

These vaccines help protect you from serious infections and are recommended during your treatment.

However, you should avoid live vaccines, as these may not be safe while your immune system is suppressed. Live vaccines can include but are not limited to:

  • BCG Vaccine
  • Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine (Priorix, MMRVaxPro)
  • Rotavirus vaccine (Rotarix)
  • Shingles vaccine (Zostavax)
  • Oral typhoid vaccine (Ty21a)
  • Varicella vaccine (Varilrix and Varilvax)
  • Yellow fever vaccine

If you are offered any vaccine, it is important to inform the vaccinator that you are taking MMF, so they can ensure the vaccine is suitable for you.

Pregnancy and fertility

MMF is not recommended if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding. If any of these apply to you, please speak to your healthcare team before starting or continuing this medication.

If you are sexually active, it is important to use effective barrier contraception (e.g. condoms) while taking MMF to avoid becoming pregnant during treatment.

Things to remember while taking MMF

  • Take MMF twice daily with food (morning and evening).
  • Do not crush or chew the tablets or capsules.
  • Don’t stop MMF unless advised by your healthcare team.
  • Keep up with regular check-ins and blood tests if advised.
  • Use effective contraception and talk to your doctor if planning a pregnancy.
  • Stay up to date with vaccinations, but avoid live vaccines.
  • Store MMF safely – keep it out of sight and reach of children.

If you feel unwell or have concerns, call the 24-hour Patient Hotline: 0800 169 5555.

Cancer Voices logo

This information has been reviewed by Cheshire and Merseyside Cancer Voices to check it is easy to understand. Cheshire and Merseyside Cancer Voices is a panel of cancer patients who volunteer to read NHS information to make sure it makes sense to people. They have been brought together by Cheshire and Merseyside Cancer Alliance.