Afinitor – Medicine Information

Afinitor

Also Known As / Brand Names

Afinitor is the brand name for Everolimus, a prescription medicine belonging to a class of drugs known as mTOR inhibitors. It is also sold under brand names such as Zortress (for transplant rejection prevention), and generic versions labeled as Everolimus. Afinitor is manufactured by Novartis and used primarily in the treatment of certain cancers and tumors, as well as in some transplant-related conditions.

Product Introduction

Afinitor (Everolimus) is an oral medication that works by inhibiting the mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) pathway, which is involved in cell growth, proliferation, and survival. By blocking this pathway, Afinitor helps slow the growth and spread of cancer cells and tumors. It also reduces the activity of the immune system, making it effective for use in transplant patients to prevent organ rejection.

Afinitor is available in tablet form and comes in various strengths, including 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, and 10 mg. It must be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider, and regular monitoring is essential due to its strong effects on immunity and cell replication.

Uses of Afinitor

  • Treatment of advanced hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer
  • Renal cell carcinoma (a type of kidney cancer)
  • Neuroendocrine tumors of pancreatic, lung, or gastrointestinal origin
  • Subependymal giant cell astrocytoma (SEGA) associated with tuberous sclerosis
  • Renal angiomyolipoma in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex
  • Prevention of organ transplant rejection (under brand Zortress)

Benefits of Afinitor

  • Inhibits cancer progression by targeting specific pathways involved in cell growth
  • Reduces the risk of tumor growth in genetic conditions like tuberous sclerosis
  • Improves survival in patients with advanced cancers, especially when used with other therapies
  • Helps prevent transplant rejection by reducing immune system activity
  • Available in a convenient oral tablet form
  • Has multiple indications, making it versatile for oncological and transplant use

Side Effects of Afinitor

Like all strong immunosuppressants and cancer therapies, Afinitor can cause significant side effects. Common side effects include:

  • Mouth ulcers or sores
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Rash or acne-like skin eruptions
  • Increased risk of infections due to immune suppression
  • Swelling in hands, ankles, or feet
  • High blood sugar or cholesterol levels
  • Abnormal liver or kidney function tests
  • Non-healing wounds or delayed healing after surgery

Less common but serious risks include lung inflammation (pneumonitis), severe infections, and bleeding. Blood counts, kidney, and liver function should be regularly monitored during treatment.

Safety Advice

Condition Advice
Pregnancy UNSAFE – Afinitor may harm the unborn baby. Use effective contraception during treatment and avoid pregnancy. Consult your doctor immediately if pregnancy occurs while on Afinitor.
Breastfeeding SAFE IF PRESCRIBED – Everolimus may pass into breast milk. Breastfeeding is generally not recommended while on this medicine unless advised by a doctor.
Driving SAFE – No direct effects on the ability to drive. However, fatigue or dizziness as side effects may affect your ability. Be cautious until you know how the drug affects you.
Kidney CAUTION – Monitor kidney function regularly. Dose adjustment may be required in patients with moderate to severe kidney impairment.
Liver UNSAFE – Liver metabolism affects Afinitor levels. Use with extreme caution or avoid in severe liver disease. Dose adjustments are often necessary.

Important Reminder

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use Afinitor only for the indication prescribed.
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.