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Drug interactions

Measles mumps rubella and varicella vaccine live + Mycophenolate mofetil

Severity: Contraindicated

Measles mumps rubella and varicella vaccine live and Mycophenolate mofetil: contraindicated interaction.

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For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Summary

This live attenuated combination vaccine can cause disseminated measles or varicella vaccine-strain disease in patients taking mycophenolate. Vaccine response may also be poor.

What this interaction means in plain words

Measles mumps rubella and varicella vaccine live and Mycophenolate mofetil are not normally used together. Taking them at the same time is expected to cause harm or make one of them unsafe, so a different medicine is usually chosen for one of the two.

Evidence level: High

Why it happens

Mycophenolate-induced lymphocyte suppression permits replication of live attenuated viruses.

What to do

Avoid during treatment and vaccinate at least 4 weeks before starting if feasible. Immunise household contacts and use post-exposure prophylaxis if exposed.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Is there an alternative to one of these two medicines for me?
  • If both are essential, who is monitoring me and how often?
  • Which symptoms mean I should stop and seek help straight away?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Measles mumps rubella and varicella vaccine live with Mycophenolate mofetil?

MediHelp rates the interaction as contraindicated. Measles mumps rubella and varicella vaccine live and Mycophenolate mofetil are not normally used together. Taking them at the same time is expected to cause harm or make one of them unsafe, so a different medicine is usually chosen for one of the two. This live attenuated combination vaccine can cause disseminated measles or varicella vaccine-strain disease in patients taking mycophenolate. Vaccine response may also be poor.

How serious is the interaction between Measles mumps rubella and varicella vaccine live and Mycophenolate mofetil?

MediHelp rates it contraindicated, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid during treatment and vaccinate at least 4 weeks before starting if feasible. Immunise household contacts and use post-exposure prophylaxis if exposed.

What other medicines interact with Mycophenolate mofetil?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Mycophenolate mofetil with, for example, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live, Bcg vaccine live, Influenza virus vaccine quadrivalent intranasal. The full list is on the Mycophenolate mofetil page.

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