A client taking mycophenolate (CellCept) for the prevention of organ rejection expresses concern about side effects. Which statement by the nurse is most accurate?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Mycophenolate is not primarily associated with causing severe hypertension. Blood pressure monitoring is important in transplant patients, but hypertension is not the major or most serious adverse effect of mycophenolate. B. Myfortic (mycophenolate mofetil delayed-release) and CellCept (mycophenolate mofetil immediate-release) have different absorption characteristics, and switching between them without healthcare guidance can affect drug levels and increase the risk of organ rejection or toxicity. Patients should not switch formulations independently. C. Mycophenolate carries a boxed warning for teratogenicity. It can cause severe birth defects and pregnancy loss. Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception, and both men and women may need counseling on reproductive risks. This is the most critical safety information related to mycophenolate, making this the most accurate statement the nurse can provide. D. Orthostatic hypotension is not a major or common adverse effect of mycophenolate. The most serious risks involve immunosuppression, such as infection, and teratogenicity, not hypotensive events.