Afinitor 10mg Tablet

About

Afinitor, containing the active ingredient Everolimus, is an advanced oral medication classified as a mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor. This class of drugs plays a crucial role in both oncology and transplant medicine due to its unique mechanism of action. Everolimus works by specifically blocking the activity of mTOR, a pivotal protein kinase that regulates various cellular processes, including cell growth, proliferation, and angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels). By inhibiting mTOR, Afinitor effectively slows down the uncontrolled growth and spread of cancer cells in various malignancies. Furthermore, in transplant settings, it acts as an immunosuppressant, preventing the immune system from rejecting transplanted organs. The precise molecular interaction involves Everolimus binding to the FKBP-12 protein, forming a complex that subsequently inhibits mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1). This inhibition leads to a significant reduction in the synthesis of proteins vital for cell division and survival, thereby exerting its potent therapeutic effects in both cancer treatment and organ rejection prophylaxis.

Uses

• Advanced renal cell carcinoma
• Hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative advanced breast cancer
• Progressive neuroendocrine tumors of pancreatic origin
• Prophylaxis of organ rejection in adult kidney and heart transplant recipients

Directions For Use

Take Afinitor exactly as prescribed by your oncologist or transplant specialist, usually once daily at the same time each day, with or without food. Do not crush or chew the tablet.

Benefits

• Slows cancer progression
• Extends progression-free survival in certain cancers
• Prevents organ transplant rejection
• Oral administration for convenience
• Targeted therapy approach
• Improves patient outcomes in specific indications

Side Effects

• Stomatitis (mouth sores)
• Rash
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Infections
• Peripheral edema
• Nausea
• Anemia
• Hyperglycemia
• Hyperlipidemia
• Pneumonitis (lung inflammation)
• Proteinuria

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Alcohol consumption should be limited or avoided while taking Afinitor, as it may exacerbate certain side effects or interact with the medication.
• Pregnancy - Afinitor is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus. Effective contraception should be used by women of childbearing potential during treatment and for 8 weeks after the last dose.
• Breastfeeding - Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Afinitor and for 2 weeks after the last dose, as the drug may pass into breast milk and harm the infant.
• Liver - Patients with impaired liver function may require dose adjustments of Afinitor. Close monitoring of liver enzymes and drug levels is essential due to altered metabolism.
• Kidney - Afinitor should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing kidney conditions. Regular monitoring of renal function is important, and dose adjustments may be necessary.
• Lung - Afinitor can cause non-infectious pneumonitis. Patients should be monitored for new or worsening respiratory symptoms, and treatment may need to be interrupted or discontinued.

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