WARNING

Here’s a detailed summary of the risks associated with taking Afinitor Disperz (everolimus):

• Infections: Afinitor Disperz can suppress the immune system, increasing the risk of infections like pneumonia, bacterial infections, and fungal infections. Symptoms to watch for include fever, chills, and persistent cough.
• Gastrointestinal Problems: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and oral mucositis (painful sores in the mouth). These can impact your overall well-being and hydration.
• Liver Toxicity: The drug can cause liver function abnormalities. Regular liver function tests are necessary to monitor for signs of liver damage, which might include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) or unusual dark urine.
• Kidney Issues: Afinitor Disperz may affect kidney function, potentially leading to elevated creatinine levels or other signs of kidney dysfunction. Kidney function should be monitored regularly.
• Hematological Effects: It can lead to changes in blood counts, including anemia (low red blood cells), thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), and leukopenia (low white blood cell count). This can increase the risk of bleeding, bruising, or infections.
• Delayed Wound Healing: The medication may impair the body’s ability to heal wounds, which is important to consider if you have surgery or injuries.
• Respiratory Issues: Rarely, it can cause interstitial lung disease, leading to symptoms like cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain.
• Metabolic Effects: Potential effects include hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol or triglycerides), which may require monitoring and management.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and report any adverse effects or unusual symptoms promptly.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Afinitor Disperz is a medication used primarily for its anti-cancer properties and is prescribed for several specific conditions. Here’s a detailed overview of its uses:

• Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC): Afinitor Disperz is often prescribed for children and adults with TSC, a genetic disorder that causes benign tumors to grow in various organs, including the brain, kidneys, and heart. It helps to manage symptoms related to TSC, particularly subependymal giant cell astrocytomas (SEGAs) and renal angiomyolipomas (AMLs).
• Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs): It is used to treat advanced neuroendocrine tumors of the pancreas, which are tumors that originate in hormone-producing cells of the pancreas. Afinitor Disperz can help to slow the growth of these tumors.
• Hormone Receptor-Positive, HER2-Negative Breast Cancer: In combination with other drugs, it is used to treat hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic breast cancer). It works by inhibiting the mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) pathway, which is involved in tumor growth.
• Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC): For patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma, Afinitor Disperz is used to slow the progression of the disease.
• Other Tumors: It might be prescribed for other specific types of tumors depending on individual cases and the treatment plan designed by oncologists.

Afinitor Disperz works by interfering with the signaling pathways that control cell growth and proliferation, which helps to inhibit tumor growth and proliferation. It is a type of targeted therapy that works differently from traditional chemotherapy.

How should this medicine be used?

Afinitor Disperz should be used according to the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Here’s a general guide on how to use Afinitor Disperz:

• Dosage: The dosage of Afinitor Disperz is tailored to the individual based on their condition, body size, and response to the medication. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose and schedule.
• Administration: Afinitor Disperz is an oral medication available in a dispersible tablet form. The tablets should be taken with food to help with absorption.
• Preparation: For children or those who have difficulty swallowing tablets, Afinitor Disperz tablets can be dispersed in water. The tablets should be mixed in a small amount of water (usually about 10 mL) and stirred for at least 2 minutes. Once dispersed, the mixture should be swallowed immediately. If necessary, you can drink additional water to ensure you have consumed the entire dose.
• Frequency: Typically, Afinitor Disperz is taken once daily. It’s important to take the medication at the same time each day to help maintain an even level of the drug in your system.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose—do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Storage: Store Afinitor Disperz at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring through blood tests and other evaluations may be required to check for side effects and ensure the medication is working as intended.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions and consult them if you have any questions or concerns about taking Afinitor Disperz.

Other uses for this medicine

• Certain Rare Tumors: Afinitor Disperz might be used for other rare or less common types of tumors based on individual patient needs and responses.
• Research: Ongoing research might explore additional applications in oncology or other medical areas.

What special precautions should I follow?

Afinitor Disperz (everolimus) is a medication used primarily for treating certain types of cancer and other conditions. Here are some important precautions to follow:

• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider will likely monitor you regularly for side effects and effectiveness. This can include blood tests to check your kidney function, liver function, and blood cell counts.
• Avoid Grapefruit: Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interact with Afinitor Disperz and increase the risk of side effects. It’s best to avoid them unless your doctor says otherwise.
• Infection Precautions: Afinitor Disperz can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. Practice good hygiene, avoid close contact with sick individuals, and report any signs of infection (fever, chills, sore throat) to your doctor.
• Wound Healing: If you have surgery or a wound, discuss with your doctor how Afinitor Disperz might affect your recovery. It can interfere with wound healing.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Avoid pregnancy while taking Afinitor Disperz, as it may harm an unborn baby. If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your doctor. Do not breastfeed while on this medication.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor of all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as Afinitor Disperz can interact with other medications.
• Dosage: Follow the prescribed dosage closely. Do not adjust your dose without consulting your healthcare provider.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and any specific precautions related to your health condition and treatment plan.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Take with Food: Take Afinitor Disperz with food to improve absorption and reduce gastrointestinal irritation.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if experiencing side effects like diarrhea.
• Avoid Grapefruit: Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interfere with the medication and should be avoided.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Timing: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose; do not double up to make up for the missed dose.
• Consistency: Inform your healthcare provider if you frequently miss doses, as they may need to adjust your treatment plan.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Afinitor Disperz can cause a range of side effects. Not all patients will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary. Here are some common and serious side effects to be aware of:

Common Side Effects:

• Mouth Sores (Stomatitis): Painful sores in the mouth and throat.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Digestive upset and discomfort.
• Diarrhea: Frequent, loose bowel movements.
• Rash: Skin irritation or rash.
• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak.
• Loss of Appetite: Reduced desire to eat, which can lead to weight loss.
• Fever: Elevated body temperature.
• Headache: Persistent or severe headaches.

Serious Side Effects:

• Infections: Due to immune suppression, there is a higher risk of infections. Symptoms can include fever, chills, or sore throat.
• Liver Issues: Elevated liver enzymes or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). Regular monitoring is needed.
• Kidney Problems: Changes in kidney function, which can be identified through blood tests.
• Pulmonary Issues: Difficulty breathing or persistent cough.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, or trouble breathing, which may indicate an allergic reaction.
• Severe Mouth Sores: These can interfere with eating and drinking.
• Bleeding or Bruising: Unusual bleeding or bruising, which may indicate a blood clotting issue.
• Lung Problems: Rare but serious conditions like interstitial lung disease.
• Gastrointestinal Perforation: A rare but serious condition where a hole forms in the wall of the digestive tract.

If you experience any of these side effects or other concerning symptoms, it is important to contact your healthcare provider immediately. They can provide guidance on managing side effects or adjusting your treatment plan if necessary.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Afinitor Disperz:

Storage:

• Temperature: Store Afinitor Disperz at room temperature, typically between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
• Protection: Keep the medication in its original container, away from moisture and heat.
• Children: Store the medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

Disposal:

• Unused Medication: Dispose of unused or expired Afinitor Disperz properly. Do not flush it down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless instructed to do so by a disposal program.
• Take-Back Programs: Utilize a drug take-back program or a designated drop-off location for safe disposal.
• Consult Pharmacist: Ask your pharmacist about the proper disposal methods for your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Symptoms: Symptoms of an overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and unusual drowsiness or lethargy.
• Immediate Action: If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Poison Control Center: Call your local poison control center for advice. In the U.S., the Poison Control Center can be reached at 1-800-222-1222.

What other information should I know?

• Adherence: Take Afinitor Disperz exactly as prescribed. Do not adjust your dose or frequency without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups and monitoring are essential to track the effectiveness of the medication and manage any side effects.
• Drug Interactions: Provide a complete list of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid interactions.
• Health Changes: Inform your healthcare provider of any new or worsening symptoms or changes in your health.
• Medication List: Keep an updated list of all your medications and share it with your healthcare providers.
• Emergency Plan: Have a plan in place for emergencies and know who to contact if you experience severe side effects or complications.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure the safe use of Afinitor Disperz and manage any potential issues effectively.