Mycophenolate reaction

[Blyth1]

Hello, I wondered if anyone has had back pain when starting this drug? I started just over 2 weeks ago on one tablet in the evening. After about 3 days of nausea all was going well, then I started with a low dull back pain. After about a week this was more pronounced- even went to get checked out for a uti- negative. Painkillers and a hot water bottle helped until I went up to 2 tablets. First dose excruciating pain, to the point of crying. Hospital pharmacist advised stopping tablets for a week.

After just over 24 hours back to dull ache, after 48 hours no pain. All my blood tests in normal range. Anyone else had this reaction?

[Ergendl]

Does the leaflet that came with the prescription list that as one of the possible side effects? People can have unusual reactions to meds that aren't listed too. Do report it to your GP so that they can submit a yellow card to the manufacturer.

[Rescue5]

Blyth1,

I too began taking Mycophenolate about six weeks ago.

My main side effect seems to be nausea, I've also experienced poor appetite and I don't taste food as well as I used to, although the appetite and taste issues were there to a degree before taking the medication.

I'm hoping the nausea will subside somewhat as I become more used to the mediction.

My prescribing doctor explained the main side effects and the more serious ones.

Your back pain does sound unusual, if you have concerns I would recommend talking to the doctor who prescribed to you to be on the safe side.

Hope things work out for you. Take care and best wishes.

[Blyth1 in reply to Rescue5]

Thank you both for your replies, much appreciated.

Back pain does not appear as a side effect in the drug package leaflet. The dispensing hospital pharmacist said she did not think the two were associated but to pause the tablets for a week and recommence.

I do hope your nausea improves soon Rescue5.

[NikkiDavies35]

Sorry to hear you’re struggling starting on mychophenolate.I’ve been on it for 5 years and I’ve never experienced back ache and pain like you sadly are. If it was me I would probably contact my rheumatology team for their opinion as I find that they are brilliant in helping with any queries and seem to have more experience of dealing with this drug. Good luck and I hope you will be feeling much better very soon.