Question

[Foggy56]

Hi my consultant has called me today to tell me to stop taking Azaropirine as it is causing problems with my liver.

He has now prescribed me with a drug MMS has anyone else been prescribed this as not heard of it before.

Don't know the full name for it yet as not collected prescription yet.

[RichardE Volunteer]

Hi Foggy,

I suspect this will be MMF or Mycophenolate Mofetil.

I've been on this for about 5 years with no problems. But some do find it causes stomach problems and occasionally, as you've found with Aza, it can cause liver problems. I'm on regular 3 monthly blood checks for MMF which I think is pretty standard. They need to keep an eye on your liver function and white cell counts to make sure that your immune system is not suppressed too much.

Hope that helps,

Richard.

[Foggy56 in reply to RichardE]

Thanks Richard for your reply.

[tracynoe]

I'm on MMF been on it for over 7 years now I was put onto it after aza caused major liver problems, not had any problems with the MMF apart from the stomach problems Richard wrote about. I have blood tests every month

[Foggy56 in reply to tracynoe]

Thanks tracynoe for your reply.

[cambs13]

I also took Mycophenalate Everything fine, but as my steroids were reduced and eventually stopped, I flared. Tried Azathioprine but also had major impact on my liver. Now on Rituximab. Sure you'll get on fine with your new drug Pam

[AndrewT]

Dear Foggy,

I am on MMF-Mycophenolate Mofetil-which, I'm sure, IS the drug that you mean. I was on Azathioprine, for fifteen years, prior to a Kidney transplant (In July 2013). I have been on MMF, for two years now-along with other drugs too-both with few problems/side effects. My doctors/consultants do keep a, very close check (less so now, after all this time) on my blood, urine, and general 'well being'.

Basically all, the drugs that we take, can cause liver, kidney, and 'tummy troubles'-to name but a few. I have to say that, assuming 'they' keep a suitable 'eye', on you, you should be fine. I have never had Rituximab, so I can't comment personally-I do know that some people do get problems/side effects-so not change there then!

Hope all goes well, for you, Foggy.

AndrewT

[Foggy56]

Thanks to all who replied to my question, it has been very helpful. Keep well xx