Everolimus: An Essential Medication Overview

Summary or Key Points

Everolimus, a medication primarily used to treat various forms of cancer and a rare genetic disorder, is a significant player in the fight against these diseases. This drug, known for its immunosuppressive and anti-cancer properties, has several dosage forms, strengths, and specific administration instructions. It may cause certain side effects, which are outlined in this article. Patients should always consult with their healthcare provider, potentially through our convenient telemedicine services, before making any changes to their medication regimen.

Names of Medication

The U.S. Brand Name for this medication is Afinitor, with the generic name (Everolimus) provided in parenthesis.

A ‘generic name’ refers to the official medical name for the active ingredient in the medication, without any brand association. This name is generally used by healthcare providers and is presented in parenthesis in this article for clarity.

Pharmacologic Category

Everolimus falls under the pharmacologic category of mTOR (mammalian Target Of Rapamycin) inhibitors. Other drugs in this category include Sirolimus (Rapamune), and Temsirolimus (Torisel).

Dosing

Everolimus is indicated for the following diseases:

• Kidney Cancer: The usual adult dose is 10 mg, taken once daily. Treatment continues until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity occurs. Always consult your healthcare provider, or one of our telemedicine providers, before adjusting your dose.
• Breast Cancer: The usual adult dose is 10 mg, taken once daily, alongside the drug exemestane. Treatment continues until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity occurs. As always, confer with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
• Neuroendocrine Tumors: The typical adult dose is 10 mg, taken once daily. Treatment continues until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Reach out to your healthcare provider, or utilize our telemedicine services, before adjusting your dose.
• Tuberous Sclerosis Complex: The dosage for this genetic disorder depends on body surface area. Consult your healthcare provider, or one of our telemedicine professionals, for personalized dosage instructions.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Everolimus is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

• Tablets: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg
• Oral solution: 2 mg/mL

Administration Instructions

Everolimus should be taken consistently at the same time each day, either with or without food. The tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and should not be chewed or crushed. If you have difficulty taking the medication, consult your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine experts for guidance.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Everolimus may cause side effects, which can vary in severity and frequency. Some people may experience:

• Common (may affect more than

  1 in 10 people): Mouth ulcers, skin rash, diarrhea, fatigue, decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, cough, and difficulty breathing.

• Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people): Severe skin reactions, allergic reactions, elevated liver enzymes, elevated blood sugar levels, and impaired wound healing.

If you experience any side effects, consult your healthcare provider or contact one of our telemedicine professionals promptly.

Contraindications

A ‘contraindication’ is a situation in which a drug should not be used because it may be harmful to the patient. Here are the contraindications for Everolimus:

• Hypersensitivity: Everolimus should not be used if you have a known allergy to everolimus, to other rapamycin derivatives, or to any of the components of the medication. Allergic reactions may cause symptoms like rash, itching, and swelling, and can be severe.
• Severe liver impairment: Everolimus is metabolized in the liver. If you have severe liver disease, the medication may accumulate in your body, leading to increased side effects.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Everolimus can interact with several other medications, including but not limited to:

• Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
• Rifampin (Rifadin)
• Clarithromycin (Biaxin)
• Carbamazepine (Tegretol)

These interactions may alter the effectiveness of Everolimus or increase its side effects. Always discuss with your healthcare provider or contact one of our telemedicine professionals if you’re taking these or other medications.

Everolimus in Pregnancy

Everolimus is not recommended during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown harm to the fetus, and there is no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine professionals.

Everolimus while Breastfeeding

It is not recommended to take Everolimus while breastfeeding due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants. Discuss with your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine professionals about the best way to feed your baby if you’re taking this medication.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Everolimus, using a GoodRX coupon, is approximately $15,000 without insurance. Prices can vary based on location, pharmacy, and dosage strength.

Possible Alternatives

Alternative treatments or lifestyle changes can supplement or replace Everolimus, depending on the specific condition. Remember to discuss these alternatives with your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine professionals before making any changes to your treatment plan.

• Kidney Cancer: Alternative treatments include targeted therapies, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgical procedures. Lifestyle changes might include a balanced diet and regular exercise.
• Breast Cancer: Possible alternatives include hormone therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or surgery. Healthy lifestyle choices such as maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and limiting alcohol can help manage this condition.
• Neuroendocrine Tumors: Surgery, radiation therapy, or other targeted therapies might be considered. Dietary changes and stress management can support overall health.
• Tuberous Sclerosis Complex: Other medications, surgery, or therapeutic interventions might be options. Specialized education and social support can help manage this condition.

Recent Updates on Everolimus Research

Recent research continues to explore the wide-ranging benefits of Everolimus. A 2023 study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that Everolimus significantly improved progression-free survival in patients with advanced lung neuroendocrine tumors. Ongoing clinical trials are currently investigating the drug’s potential for treating other forms of cancer and neurological disorders. As ever, patients should consult with their healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine professionals to understand how this research could impact their treatment plan.

Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.