Afinitor (Everolimus)

Do's

• Take Afinitor exactly as directed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily.
• Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew them.
• Use the medication regularly at the same time each day to get the most benefit from it.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.
• Follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding the use of Afinitor.
• Use effective birth control if your sex partner is able to get pregnant while you are taking Afinitor.
• If you have trouble opening the medication bottles or reading the labels, inform your healthcare provider for assistance.

Don'ts

• Do not change the dosage forms of Afinitor without checking with your healthcare provider.
• Do not increase your dose or use the medication more often or for longer than prescribed.
• Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice unless your healthcare provider says it is safe to do so, as grapefruit can increase the chance of side effects with Afinitor.
• Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle Afinitor or breathe the dust from the tablets, as it may harm an unborn baby.
• Do not take other medications or supplements without discussing them with your healthcare provider.

Common side effects of Afinitor may include:

• Stomatitis (sores or swelling in the mouth)
• Increased risk of infections
• Rash
• Diarrhea
• Swelling of the hands, arms, feet, ankles, or legs
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Weakness or lack of energy
• Cough
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Metabolic syndrome

Serious side effects of Afinitor

• Serious infection, such as pneumonia
• Kidney failure
• Slower wound healing
• Pneumonitis (inflammation of the lungs) not caused by an infection
• Decrease in bone marrow activity, leading to low levels of red or white blood cells
• Allergic reaction

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking  Afinitor,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Tell your healthcare provider about any allergies you have, including allergies to Afinitor itself, similar medications (sirolimus or temsirolimus), or any other ingredients in the medication.

Inform your healthcare provider of your medical history, particularly if you have liver disease, any recent or current infections, diabetes, high cholesterol or triglycerides, or have undergone radiation treatment.

Afinitor may cause dizziness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until you are sure you can do them safely. Limit alcohol consumption and talk to your healthcare provider about marijuana use.

Afinitor can weaken your immune system and increase your risk of infections. Stay away from people with contagious illnesses and consult your healthcare provider if you are exposed to an infection.

Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal products, before having any surgery or immunization.

Afinitor may increase your bleeding risk. Use caution with sharp objects and avoid contact sports.

Older adults may be more susceptible to side effects.

Afinitor can affect fertility in both men and women. Consult your healthcare provider for more details.

Afinitor is contraindicated in pregnancy. It can harm an unborn baby. Women should use reliable birth control during treatment and for 8 weeks after the last dose. Men should also use birth control during treatment and for 4 weeks after the last dose.

Women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant should not handle Afinitor or breathe the dust from the tablets. Afinitor is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers.