What is Afinitor (Everolimus)?
Afinitor (everolimus) is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of cancer by slowing down the growth and spread of cancer cells.
This medication is prescribed for:
- Advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC): When the cancer has progressed after treatments like sunitinib or sorafenib.
- Subependymal Giant Cell Astrocytoma (SEGA): A rare brain tumor linked to tuberous sclerosis (TS), especially when surgery is not an option.
- Breast Cancer: For postmenopausal women with advanced breast cancer that is hormone receptor-positive and HER2-negative, used together with exemestane.
- Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors (PNET): These are tumors that cannot be removed with surgery, have spread nearby, or have spread to other parts of the body.
- Advanced Gastrointestinal and Lung Neuroendocrine Tumors: To slow tumor growth.
Patients should discuss potential side effects with their healthcare provider, as Afinitor can affect the immune system and increase the risk of infections.
Regular check-ups are essential to monitor the body’s response and manage adverse effects.
How Does Afinitor Work?
Afinitor medication is an mTOR inhibitor that blocks a protein needed for cancer cells to grow and multiply.
It targets the mTOR pathway, which is often too active in some cancers. By forming a complex called mTORC1, Afinitor stops the mTOR protein from working.
This slows down tumor growth and reduces symptoms. It also lowers HIF-1 and VEGF, which cuts off the blood supply to tumors and reduces glucose use, making it harder for cancer cells to grow.
Afinitor treats advanced renal cell carcinoma and subependymal giant cell astrocytoma (SEGA) linked to tuberous sclerosis (TS). In TS, changes in the TSC1 or TSC2 genes cause mTOR to stay active, leading to tumor growth.
Afinitor blocks this pathway, helping to shrink tumors. It helps manage these conditions but does not cure them. Regular check-ups are needed to track its effects and manage side effects.
Dose and Usage
Afinitor is usually taken once daily, simultaneously every day, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
Do not chew or crush the tablet. If you cannot swallow the tablet, dissolve it in water and drink it immediately.
Always follow your doctor’s instructions for the correct dose and usage of Afinitor.
Dosage Form and Strengths of Afinitor
Afinitor is available in tablet form to treat advanced renal cell carcinoma.
The dosage may vary depending on liver function and other factors.
- Tablets: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg
- The recommended dose for advanced renal cell carcinoma: 10 mg once daily
- For moderate liver problems: 5 mg once daily
- Dose adjustments: May be needed for side effects or interactions with other medications
How to Use Afinitor?
Take Afinitor medication once a day at the same time every day. You can take it with or without food, but always stay consistent with your choice.
Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not chew or crush it.
If you cannot swallow the tablet, dissolve it in about 30 mL of water by stirring gently and drinking it immediately.
Then, rinse the glass with the same amount of water and drink the rinse to ensure you get the full dose.
Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking Afinitor, as this can affect how the medication works.
Storage Information
Store Afinitor tablets at room temperature, between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep them in the original container to protect them from light and moisture. Do not crush or break the tablets. Keep Afinitor out of the reach of children.
Side Effects
Afinitor medication can cause side effects, which can be mild or severe. Knowing what to expect and when to seek medical help is important.
Some side effects are common, while others are more serious and need immediate attention.
If you are using Afinitor, be aware of how your body reacts and talk to your doctor about any concerns.
Common Side Effects
- Mouth ulcers or sores
- Feeling weak or tired
- Cough or shortness of breath
- Diarrhea
- Rash, dry skin, or itching
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Swelling in arms, hands, feet, or face
- Abnormal taste
- Headache
- Nosebleeds
- Pain in arms or legs
Severe Side Effects
- Lung problems like shortness of breath or cough
- Severe infections
- Kidney problems or changes in urination
- High blood sugar or diabetes symptoms
- Severe allergic reactions like rash or swelling
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Seizures or severe headaches
Warnings and Precautions
Before using Afinitor, it is important to understand the potential risks and necessary precautions. This medication can cause serious side effects, including lung problems, infections, mouth ulcers, and changes in blood sugar and kidney function.
Afinitor medication may also interact with other drugs or medical conditions.
Patients should be aware of these warnings and take appropriate measures to use Afinitor safely.
- Non-infectious Pneumonitis: Monitor for new or worsening respiratory symptoms. If symptoms are severe, stop taking Afinitor and consider corticosteroids. If symptoms are mild, continue at a reduced dose.
- Infections: Afinitor can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of serious diseases, including fungal, viral, or bacterial infections. Report any signs of infection to your doctor immediately.
- Oral Ulceration: Mouth ulcers and oral sores are common. Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes and do not use antifungal treatments unless prescribed.
- Kidney Function: Monitor kidney function regularly, as Afinitor can cause increased creatinine levels.
- Blood Sugar and Lipids: Afinitor can cause high blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. Regular monitoring is recommended.
- Blood Cell Count: Afinitor can lower blood cell counts, increasing the risk of anemia and infections. Regular blood tests are needed.
- Drug Interactions: Afinitor interacts with certain medications, potent CYP3A4 inhibitors, and inducers. Dose adjustments may be needed.
- Hepatic Impairment: Use caution in patients with liver problems. Dose adjustments are recommended for moderate liver impairment. Do not use in severe liver impairment.
- Vaccinations: Avoid live vaccines during treatment and stay away from people who have recently received live vaccines.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Afinitor may harm an unborn baby. Women should use effective birth control during treatment and for 8 weeks after stopping Afinitor. Do not breastfeed while using this medication.
Drug Interactions With Other Medications
Afinitor medication can interact with other medications, affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of these interactions to use Afinitor safely.
Increased Everolimus Blood Concentrations
- Ketoconazole
- Erythromycin
- Verapamil
Decreased Everolimus Blood Concentrations
- Rifampin
- St. John’s Wort
Alternative Medications
If Afinitor is not suitable for you, other medications may be available to treat your condition. Talk to your doctor to find the best alternative for your specific needs.
Affordable Afinitor Now Available from Pharma Giant
Affordable Afinitor medication is now available from Pharma Giant, helping you get the cancer treatment you need at a lower cost.
Pharma Giant partners with licensed Canadian pharmacies to provide genuine Afinitor at prices you can afford.
With easy online ordering, you can buy Afinitor medication from the comfort of your home and deliver it directly to your doorstep.
Fast shipping ensures you receive your medication quickly and safely. Choose Pharma Giant for the best prices on Afinitor medication, and start saving on your cancer treatment today.
How to Order Afinitor Online?
- Search for Afinitor on Pharma Giant’s website. Select the right strength and click “Buy” to add it to your cart.
- Click “Continue checkout” and enter your contact and payment details. Create an account if you are a new customer, or log in if you already have one.
- You can upload your prescription on the website, email it to info@pharmagiant.com, or fax it to 1-888-562-8159. Once a pharmacist reviews it, your order will be shipped, and a tracking number will be included.
Afinitor Coupon: Save 10% on your first purchase by using this PGSAVE10 promo
Frequently Asked Questions
Disclaimer
Pharma Giant provides medical information to help you better understand medications and medical conditions.This content is for informational use only and does not replace advice from a licensed medical practitioner. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medication. All our partners follow strict safety standards set by their country’s health authorities to make sure you receive safe and high-quality medications.
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