Often used for:
Renal cell carcinoma, subependymal giant cell astrocytoma, organ transplant rejection prevention, seizure prevention in tuberous sclerosis complex
What is everolimus?
Everolimus is an mTOR inhibitor that blocks cell signals to slow tumor growth and angiogenesis, and can help prevent transplant rejection. Patients have pregnancy tests as needed and regular blood tests to monitor counts, liver, and kidney function. The drug can increase infection risk.
Possible long-term effects
- Second cancers (e.g., lymphoma, skin cancer)
- Fertility problems
Everolimus at home
- Take at the same time daily, consistently with or without food.
- Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water; do not cut, crush, or chew.
- Disperz® tablets: follow mixing instructions, allow 3 minutes to dissolve, swirl, and take immediately.
- If a dose is missed, take as soon as remembered unless it is near the next dose; do not double doses.
- Store at room temperature, protect from light, and use safe handling methods (gloves recommended).
- Women who are pregnant or planning pregnancy should avoid mixing the suspension if possible.
- Do not use past the expiration date and follow disposal instructions.
Possible side effects
- Increased infection risk
- Headache
- Mouth sores
- Trouble sleeping
- Swelling of arms and legs
- Constipation
- Low blood counts
- High blood glucose
- Fever
- Fatigue or weakness
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Impaired wound healing
- Skin rash, itching, dryness, redness
- Acne
- Nail changes
- Nose or throat irritation
- Nosebleed
- Change in taste
- Mood or behavior changes (depression, irritability, anxiety)
- Joint, muscle, or back pain
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Nausea and vomiting
- Changes in menstrual cycle
- Urinary tract infection
- High blood pressure
- Kidney problems
- Liver problems
- Lung or breathing problems
- Heart problems
- High cholesterol or triglycerides
- Symptoms of allergic reaction include rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck
- Not all patients experience these side effects. Report any symptoms to the care team.
Tips for families
- Discuss all questions with your doctor or pharmacist.
- Protect skin from the sun to reduce cancer risk.
- Inform every provider you see about everolimus; many medicines and supplements (e.g., St. John's wort) interact.
- Avoid grapefruit or Seville oranges and their juices.
- Stay well hydrated as directed by the care team.
- Use birth control during treatment and for 2 months afterward; inform the care team if pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Caregivers should avoid contact with patient body fluids for several days after dosing.
