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Myfortic vs. Rapamune

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Myfortic (mycophenolic acid) and Rapamune (sirolimus) are both immunosuppressants used to prevent kidney transplant rejection, but they have some key differences. Myfortic is taken twice a day, while Rapamune is usually taken once a day. Myfortic is specifically for kidney transplants, whereas Rapamune can also treat lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM), a condition affecting the lungs, kidneys, and lymphatic system. Myfortic must be taken on an empty stomach, but Rapamune can be taken with or without food, as long as you are consistent. Myfortic is available in a generic form, which can be less expensive, and is suitable for children aged 5 and older. In contrast, Rapamune is not recommended for children under 12 and can cause fertility problems. Both medications have serious side effects, including risks of cancer and infections, and should not be used during pregnancy.

Mycophenolic acid

(Myfortic)

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Sirolimus

(Rapamune)

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Summary for Myfortic

Prescription only

Mycophenolic acid (Myfortic) is a transplant medication that helps prevent rejection after a kidney transplant in people 5 years and older. It's an immunosuppressant, which means that it works by weakening the immune system. Mycophenolic acid (Myfortic) is a tablet that's taken by mouth two times a day. The tablets have a special coating on them, which can help lessen gastrointestinal-related side effects such as upset stomach and diarrhea. Your transplant team might refer to the medication by its generic name, mycophenolic acid, or by its brand name, Myfortic.

Indications for Myfortic

  • Prevention of kidney transplant rejection in people 5 years and older

Pros and Cons for Myfortic

Pros

Cons

  • Only approved for use for people who've received a kidney transplant
  • Only available as tablets that must be swallowed whole; not a good option for people with trouble swallowing pills
  • Interacts with antacids like Mylanta

Common Side Effects for Myfortic

  • Constipation (38%)
  • Nausea (29%)
  • Urinary tract infection (UTI, 29%)
  • Diarrhea (24%)
  • Trouble sleeping (24%)
  • Vomiting (23%)
  • Upset stomach or indigestion (23%)
  • Anemia (low red blood count, 22%)
  • Viral infection (cytomegalovirus or CMV, 20%)

Warnings for Myfortic

  • Harm to unborn baby
  • Risk for cancer
  • Serious infections
  • Blood problems
  • Stomach bleeding and ulcers
  • Inflammation in the body
  • Many drug interactions
  • Avoid in people with a genetic condition called hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyl-transferase (HGPRT) deficiency
  • Caution when getting vaccines during treatment

Summary for Rapamune

Prescription only

Sirolimus (Rapamune) lowers the activity of your immune system to prevent rejection after a kidney transplant. It can also help with a condition that affects your lymphatic system, which is related to your immune system. Your provider will check the levels of sirolimus (Rapamune) in your blood, and this will help guide the dosing. Sirolimus (Rapamune) is available as tablets and as an oral solution, and it's usually only taken once a day. Common side effects include changes in your lab values (e.g., more cholesterol and fat in the blood, change in kidney labs), which is another reason to get your blood checked regularly while taking this medication.

Indications for Rapamune

Pros and Cons for Rapamune

Pros

  • Taken once a day
  • Can be taken with or without food
  • Comes as an oral solution for people who have a hard time swallowing pills
  • Available as a generic medication, which can be less expensive

Cons

  • Not meant for children age 12 and younger
  • Not a good option during pregnancy
  • Can cause fertility problems
  • Must be used with other immunosuppressants

Common Side Effects for Rapamune

  • Swelling in arms and legs (up to 58%)
  • More cholesterol and fat in the blood (up to 57%)
  • High blood pressure (up to 49%)
  • Change in kidney labs (up to 40%)
  • Constipation (up to 36%)
  • Headache (up to 34%)
  • Pain (up to 33%)
  • Stomach pain (up to 29%)
  • Urinary tract infection (up to 26%)

Warnings for Rapamune

  • Risk for cancer
  • Serious infections
  • Not recommended for liver and lung transplants
  • Slower wound healing
  • High lipids (cholesterol and triglycerides)
  • Serious medication interactions
  • Kidney damage
  • Harm to unborn babies and lower sperm count
  • Vaccines

Prices with our coupons for Myfortic vs. Rapamune

Price Card Drug Icon
Mycophenolic Acid120 tablets / 360mg
$42.46$1,041.64
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Price Card Drug Icon
Sirolimus90 tablets / 1mg of
$76.72$1,433.39
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