Afinitor, also known as everolimus, is a medication used to treat certain types of cancer, such as kidney, breast, pancreas, lung, stomach and intestinal cancers. Everolimus is also used to treat benign tumors in the brain or kidneys in those with tuberous sclerosis complex, which is a genetic disorder.

How does Afinitor work?

Everolimus blocks an enzyme in the body that is responsible for the control of cell division and the growth of blood vessels. Afinitor prevents the division of cancer cells and reduces blood supplies to tumors, which slows down the growth and spread of certain cancers.

Make sure to always read the patient information and instructions before using this medication. Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Take this medication by mouth, with or without food, usually once a day. Choose one way to take Afinitor and stick with it for the duration of your treatment.
• Swallow the pill whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablets.
• Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit.
• Do not increase your dose or use this drug more or less often than your doctor recommends.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have an allergy to sirolimus or temsirolimus
• If you have a medical history of liver disease, recent infections, diabetes, high cholesterol, or high triglyceride levels.

You should also know:

• Consuming alcohol or cannabis can increase symptoms of dizziness.
• Everolimus can make you more likely to get infections or worsen current infections. It is important to wash your hands well to prevent spread of infection.
• Older adults can be more sensitive to side effects of this drug.
• This drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs.

Common side effects of Afinitor include but are not limited to:

• Diarrhea
• nausea/vomiting
• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Changes in taste
• Nosebleeds
• Dry skin
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Pain or sores in the mouth
• Temporary hair loss

Get medical help if you have any of the following side effects of everolimus:

• Fatal kidney problems
• Symptoms of high blood sugar (increased thirst or urination)
• Signs of infection (sore throat or cough)
• Male or female infertility

Can pregnant women take this drug?

It is always important to tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before starting a new medication. It is not advised to take everolimus because it can harm an unborn baby. This drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs and pregnant women should not handle this medication or breathe the dust from the tablets. It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk, but it is recommended to avoid breast-feeding for at least 2 weeks after stopping treatment.