Information about Afinitor

Chemical name: Everolimus (E-ver-OH-li-mus)

Afinitor (everolimus) is a cancer medication that is used to treat certain variations of kidney cancer, breast cancer, or brain tumors. It works by interfering with the growth of cancer cells, thereby slowing their spread throughout the body. Afinitor is also used in some cases to treat advanced or progressive tumors in the stomach, pancreas or intestines.

This drug can also be used to treat tuberous sclerosis complex, a genetic condition that causes benign tumors in the brain or kidneys.

Directions

It is important to take Afinitor as prescribed by your doctor. Failure to do so can have serious, and sometimes fatal effects.

Afinitor Dosage Information

Your doctor will prescribe you a specific dosage of Afinitor based on your medical condition, test results, response to treatment or other medications. It is important to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all your medications as Afinitor can interact with other medications.

Afinitor should be taken at the same time each day. For best results, this medication should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. Do not chew, break or crush your Afinitor tablet.

Using Afinitor regularly, as directed, will produce the most optimal results. You should not adjust your dosage or prolong your use, unless indicated by a doctor.

Cautions

Prior to taking Afinitor, talk to your doctor if you experience a breathing disorder like asthma or COPD. Additionally, if you have any history of:

• liver disease, especially hepatitis B;
• diabetes or high blood sugar;
• high cholesterol;
• high blood pressure
• an active or chronic infection;
• kidney disease

Afinitor lowers your white blood cell count which has an impact on your body’s ability to fight infections and for your blood to clot. Afinitor can also interact with vaccines, especially live vaccines. Before receiving an immunization, consult your doctor. You should also avoid interactions with people who have infections, or recently received a vaccine.

This medication should not be taken by women who are pregnant as it can harm the unborn baby. If you are using birth control, ensure you use remain consistent in taking it for at least 8 weeks after your treatment of Afinitor ends.

If you miss a dose of Afinitor, take it as soon as you remember. However, if you are more than 6 hours late, skip the dosage. Taking dosages too close together could cause negative effects.

Side Effects

Side effects of Afinitor can range from mild to severe. You may require emergency attention if you have trouble breathing, chest pains, swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat. Taking medications to manage heart or blood pressure (ACE inhibitors) could result in more severe side effects.

Common side effects include:

• nausea, vomiting
• diarrhea or constipation
• breathing problems including coughing
• nosebleeds
• infections
• pain or swelling
• hair loss
• skin problems, including acne, rash dry skin
• weight loss, loss of appetite
• insomnia
• mood swings
• dizziness or headaches
• high blood sugar

Should you experience any of the above side effects, contact your doctor.

Find out more about Afinitor side effects

Taking Afinitor can have serious side effects, including:

• lung problems, including chest pains, shortness of breath
• kidney problems
• low blood cell count
• sign of infection
• liver problems
• ulcers or blisters in your mouth
• Swelling of the hands, ankles and feet
• Slow healing wounds
• Easy brusing and bleeding
• Extreme tiredness
• Missed or heavy periods

Notify your doctor right away if you experience any kidney problems including change in color (bloody) or amount of urine. Kidney problems caused by afinitor can be potentially fatal.

Afinitor can also cause fatal liver disease in people who have hepatitis B. It can also cause fatal lung problems.

Despite it’s severe side effects, Afinitor is prescribed when your doctor has determined that the benefits outweigh the risks.