Everolimus

What is Everolimus for?

Everolimus is a medicine that has been used for treatment of certain types of cancer e.g. kidney cancer, breast cancer, neuroendocrine tumors.

How should I take or use Everolimus?

What should I do if I forget to take or use Everolimus?

If you miss a dose of Everolimus, take it as soon as you remember if it is within 6 hours of the missed dose. However if more than 6 hours have past, skip the missed dose and go back to your usual dosing. Do not double the dose.

What precautions should I take when taking or using Everolimus?

• Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you:
• Have any other medical conditions e.g. diabetes, high cholesterol, hepatitis B
• Are taking any other long-term medicines or supplements
• Effective birth control should be used during treatment and for at least 2 months after stopping treatment. Inform your doctor if you plan to get or suspect that you are pregnant.
• Do not breastfeed. Inform your doctor if you intend to breastfeed while taking Everolimus.

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use Everolimus?

• Grapefruit or its juice
• Starfruit
• Seville oranges

What are some common side effects of Everolimus?

• Nausea or vomiting
• Mouth sores
• Decreased appetite, taste changes
• Slight indigestion or diarrhea
• Mild to moderate headache
• Rash, dry itchy skin, acne
  Protect yourself from sunlight by wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen.
• Increased blood pressure, cholesterol or lipid levels and blood sugar levels
• Body aches and tiredness
• Swelling of the leg or feet
• Increased risk of infection
  To minimize infection risk, take precaution when visiting crowded areas or being around sick people.

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Allergic reactions – rashes, facial swelling, breathing difficulty
• Rapid heartbeat or chest pain
• Signs of infection – fever or chills, cough, sore throat, pain or difficulty in urinating
• Signs of bleeding – bruising, black tarry stools, blood in the urine
• Unusual weakness, tiredness or light-headedness
• Sudden onset or gradual worsening of cough and/or breathlessness
• Wounds that heal slowly or do not heal well

Be cautious especially if you have a history of diabetes.

How should I store Everolimus?

• Keep away from children
• Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight
• Store at room temperature

How should I handle Everolimus safely?

Do not break or crush the tablet.

What should I do if I overdose?

If you overdose on this medicine, inform your doctor immediately.