Certican 0.5mg Tablet

About

Certican (everolimus) is an immunosuppressive agent that functions as an inhibitor of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). Its mechanism involves binding to the FKBP-12 protein, forming a complex that then inhibits mTOR, a serine-threonine kinase crucial for cell growth, proliferation, and survival. In transplant medicine, this inhibition leads to a reduction in the proliferation of T-lymphocytes and B-lymphocytes, which are key mediators of immune rejection. By suppressing these immune cells, everolimus helps prevent the body from recognizing and attacking the transplanted organ.

It is typically used as part of a multi-drug immunosuppressive regimen to optimize efficacy and minimize the toxicity associated with higher doses of individual agents. Everolimus is particularly valued for its ability to reduce the exposure to calcineurin inhibitors, thereby potentially mitigating their nephrotoxic effects, and improving long-term graft function and patient outcomes.

Uses

• Prevention of acute organ rejection in kidney transplant patients.
• Prevention of acute organ rejection in heart transplant patients.
• Prevention of acute organ rejection in liver transplant patients.
• Treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma.

Directions For Use

Administer orally once daily, preferably at the same time each day, with or without food.

Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush, chew, or split.

Benefits

• Effective in preventing transplant rejection.
• May allow for reduced calcineurin inhibitor exposure.
• Contributes to improved graft survival rates.
• Has antiproliferative effects on certain tumor cells.
• Offers a non-nephrotoxic immunosuppression option.
• Provides a targeted approach to immune modulation.

Side Effects

• Increased susceptibility to infections.
• Anemia.
• Thrombocytopenia.
• Leukopenia.
• Hypercholesterolemia.
• Hypertriglyceridemia.
• Hypertension.
• Peripheral edema.
• Proteinuria.
• Stomatitis/oral ulcers.
• Diarrhea.
• Rash.

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Concurrent use of alcohol should be approached with caution as it may exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects or potentially interact with other co-administered medications.
• Pregnancy - Contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential teratogenic effects. Women of childbearing potential must use highly effective contraception during treatment and for 8 weeks after the last dose.
• Breastfeeding - Not recommended for use during breastfeeding. Everolimus may be excreted in human milk and could cause serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants.
• Liver - Requires careful monitoring and potential dose adjustment in patients with hepatic impairment, as everolimus is extensively metabolized by the liver. Therapeutic drug monitoring is crucial.
• Kidney - No specific dose adjustment is typically required for patients with renal impairment. However, close monitoring of renal function is important, especially when used in combination with nephrotoxic drugs.
• Lung - Patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of non-infectious pneumonitis, such as cough, dyspnea, or fever, which can be a serious adverse effect of everolimus.

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