Everolimus

This page provides a brief overview of the drug everolimus, covering its uses, dosage instructions, mechanism of action, available brand names and strengths, safety precautions, and common side effects.

Context and Approval Date

Everolimus is an immunosuppressant that received regulatory approval for medical use on March 30, 2009.

Mechanism of Action of Everolimus

Everolimus contains the active ingredient everolimus, which works by inhibiting a protein known as the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), a key regulator of cell growth. By blocking mTOR activity, the drug slows the growth of abnormal cancer cells, helping to shrink tumours and improve treatment outcomes in patients.

All Substitutes

View All
Product Packaging Size Manufacturer Price
Torinat 5mg tablet 10 tablet Natco Pharma INR 2100
Evermil 5mg Tablet 10 tablet Glenmark Pharmaceuticals INR 3500
Everbliss 5mg Tablet 10 tablet BDR Pharmaceuticals INR 4100
Afinitor 5mg Tablet 10 tablet Novartis India INR 10000
Rolimus 5mg Tablet 10 tablet Cipla Ltd INR 4300

Uses of Everolimus

Everolimus has been developed to treat advanced hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, and neuroendocrine tumors of the stomach, lungs, and intestines that are not suitable for surgical treatment.

Everolimus administration guidelines and available dosage options

Take Everolimus tablets exactly as prescribed by your physician. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, chew, or open it. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage and duration of treatment based on your age, body weight, and medical condition. Do not discontinue the medication unless advised by your doctor.

Information about Everolimus

Everolimus is used in the treatment of breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, lung cancer, kidney cancer, and for the prevention of kidney transplant rejection.

How Everolimus works

Everolimus works by suppressing the activity of the body’s immune system, thereby helping to prevent the rejection of a transplanted organ.

Common side effects of Everolimus

Decreased appetite, Increased glucose level in blood, Pneumonitis, Hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol), Increased aspartate aminotransferase, Decreased white blood cell count (lymphocytes), Lymphopenia, Increased alanine aminotransferase, Increased triglyceride level in blood, Joint pain, Pleural effusion, Pulmonary edema, Rash, Diarrhea, Infection, Breathlessness, Stomatitis (Inflammation of the mouth), Fatigue, Anemia (low number of red blood cells), Low blood platelets, Decreased potassium level in blood, Weight loss, Taste change
  • Before starting everolimus, consult your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: liver problems, diabetes, high blood cholesterol, recent surgery or an unhealed wound, an active infection, a history of hepatitis, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have an intolerance to certain sugars.
  • Seek medical advice if you experience increased thirst or frequent urination, develop any infection, suffer from shortness of breath, cough, or fever, or need to receive a vaccination while taking Everolimus.
  • Everolimus may impact fertility in both males and females. If you are planning to have a child, consult your doctor for guidance.
  • Avoid driving or operating machinery while taking Everolimus, as it may cause fatigue.

    • Warning, Precautions, and Side Effects Associated with Everolimus

    Warnings

    If you experience shortness of breath, chest pain, or a worsening cough, contact your doctor immediately. While receiving Everolimus treatment, your doctor may periodically check your white blood cell count, platelet levels, blood sugar, electrolytes, and kidney function to avoid serious complications. This medication may cause kidney issues. Be sure to inform your doctor if you have been diagnosed with liver disorders, kidney problems, heart failure, high cholesterol, or hypertension before beginning treatment.

    Precautions

    Everolimus tablets can harm an unborn fetus. Before starting this treatment, inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. A pregnancy test will be conducted prior to beginning treatment. Discuss reliable birth control options with your healthcare provider and use them during treatment and for 8 weeks after your last dose. As Everolimus passes into breast milk, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment.

    Side Effects

    Common side effects that may occur during Everolimus treatment include fever, chills, skin rash, joint pain, swelling, fatigue, loss of appetite, increased risk of infection, mouth ulcers, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, hives, flushing, chest pain, dizziness, or trouble breathing or swallowing, contact your doctor immediately.

    Word Of Advice

    If you experience dizziness or any discomfort during treatment with Everolimus tablets, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery. Mouth ulcers or sores are common during this treatment, and your healthcare provider will prescribe a mouthwash to help manage this side effect.

    FAQ -Everolimus

    1What you should know before taking Everolimus tablet?
    1. Inform Your Doctor About Your Health Conditions:
  • Tell your doctor if you have any liver or kidney problems, infection, or a history of lung or breathing issues.
  • If you have any allergies to Everolimus or other medicines, inform your doctor.
    • 2. Medications You Are Taking:
  • Make sure to inform your doctor about all the medicines you’re taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamin or nutritional supplements, and herbal products. Some medications can interact with Everolimus and affect its effectiveness or cause side effects.
    • 3. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
  • Everolimus can harm an unborn baby, so if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor before using this medication.
  • If you are breastfeeding, inform your doctor, as Everolimus can pass into breast milk.
    • 4. Fertility Concerns:
  • Everolimus may affect fertility in both men and women. If you are planning to have a child, consult your doctor beforehand.
    • 5. Infection Risk:
  • Everolimus can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of infections. Make sure to avoid contact with people who have infections, and report any symptoms of infection to your doctor.
    • 6. Lab Tests and Monitoring:
  • Your doctor may recommend regular blood tests to monitor the effects of Everolimus on your body, including liver and kidney function.
    • 7. Avoid Grapefruit:
  • Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Everolimus, so it's best to avoid them unless your doctor advises otherwise.
    • Make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions closely and discuss any concerns you have before starting treatment with Everolimus.
    2Is it safe to use Everolimus tablet during pregnancy?
    No, Everolimus is not considered safe to use during pregnancy.
  • Risk to the unborn baby: Everolimus may cause harm to a developing fetus and can increase the risk of birth defects or pregnancy complications.
  • Animal studies: Research in animals has shown negative effects on the fetus, and although human data is limited, the potential risks are significant.
  • Birth control recommended: Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 8 weeks after the last dose of Everolimus.
    • If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or think you might be pregnant, talk to your doctor immediately before taking this medicine.
    3What are the side effects of Everolimus Tablet?
    Common Side Effects of Everolimus Tablet:
  • Mouth ulcers or sores
  • Weakness or tiredness (fatigue)
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Cough or shortness of breath
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Increased risk of infections (due to weakened immune system)
  • Headache
  • Swelling in hands, feet, or ankles
  • High blood sugar (hyperglycemia)
  • Menstrual irregularities in women
    • Serious Side Effects (call your doctor immediately if you notice these):
  • Persistent fever, chills, or signs of infection
  • Difficulty breathing or chest pain
  • Severe mouth or throat pain
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Signs of allergic reaction: swelling, severe rash, itching, or trouble breathing
    • Because Everolimus affects the immune system and other body functions, regular monitoring through lab tests is usually needed during treatment.
    4Is it safe to undergo surgery while on treatment with Everolimus tablet?
    Caution is needed when undergoing surgery while taking Everolimus.
    1. Delayed Wound Healing:
  • Everolimus can slow down the body's ability to heal wounds, including surgical cuts, which increases the risk of infection and complications after surgery.
    • 2. Higher Risk of Infection:
  • Because it weakens the immune system, Everolimus may raise the chance of infections during and after surgery.
    • 3. What You Should Do:
  • Inform your surgeon and doctor well in advance if you're scheduled for any surgery.
  • Your doctor may decide to pause Everolimus before and after surgery to allow proper healing.
  • Never stop or change your medication without medical advice.
    • In summary: Everolimus can affect surgical outcomes, so always discuss planned procedures with your healthcare team.
    5 Can I drink alcohol while taking Everolimus tablet?
    It is generally advised to limit or avoid alcohol while taking Everolimus.
    1. Liver strain:
  • Both alcohol and Everolimus can affect liver function. Using them together may increase the risk of liver damage.
    • 2. Weakened immune system:
  • Everolimus already lowers your immunity. Alcohol can further weaken your body’s defenses, raising the risk of infections.
    • 3. Side effects may worsen:
  • Alcohol may increase side effects like fatigue, nausea, or dizziness when combined with Everolimus.
    • 4. Interference with treatment:
  • Alcohol could potentially interfere with how well the medicine works, especially during cancer treatment or after an organ transplant.
    • Recommendation: Talk to your doctor before consuming alcohol while on Everolimus. If allowed, it should be in moderation and only under medical advice.

    References

  • Jan Hasskarl; Everolimus; Recent Results in Cancer Research; Published on 2018; Accessed on 18/03/2023; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30069763/
  • Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Limited, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [ Revised on June 2022] [ Accessed on 18th March 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/
    pil.6658.pdf
  • Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, US Food and Drug Administration, [ Revised on July 2012] [ Accessed on 18th March 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/
    drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/022334s016lbl.pdf
  • Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Targeted therapy: tyrosine kinase inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, and cytokines, 12th edition, 2011, 1743.
  • KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Immunosuppressant drugs, 7th edition, 2013, 878 - 882.