Description
🧬💊🛡️ Everolimus 5mg Tablet: Targeted Therapy for Cancer and Transplant Rejection
Everolimus 5mg tablet is a targeted immunosuppressive and anti-cancer medication that belongs to the class of mTOR inhibitors (mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors). It is used in the treatment of various cancers and to prevent organ transplant rejection. Everolimus works by slowing down cell growth, proliferation, and immune responses, making it valuable in oncology and transplant medicine.
🔬 Mechanism of Action
Everolimus inhibits mTOR, a protein kinase involved in cell growth, metabolism, angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels), and immune response. By blocking mTOR:
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It prevents cancer cell proliferation and tumor angiogenesis
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Suppresses immune response, reducing the risk of organ rejection in transplant patients
This dual action makes it effective in both cancer therapy and immunosuppression.
📌 Indications and Uses
🔹 Cancer Treatment
Everolimus 5mg is approved for the treatment of:
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Advanced renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer) after failure of first-line therapy
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Hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer (postmenopausal women, in combination with exemestane)
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Neuroendocrine tumors of pancreatic, gastrointestinal, or lung origin
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Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC)-related tumors, including:
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Subependymal giant cell astrocytoma (SEGA)
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Renal angiomyolipomas
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🔹 Immunosuppressive Therapy
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Prevention of organ rejection in kidney or liver transplant patients, often combined with other immunosuppressants (e.g., tacrolimus, corticosteroids)
💊 Dosage and Administration
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Typical dose: 5mg once daily (varies depending on indication)
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Taken at the same time every day, with or without food
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Swallow whole, do not crush or chew
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Dose adjustments may be needed based on:
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Blood levels of the drug (therapeutic drug monitoring)
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Renal or hepatic impairment
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Concomitant medications
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⚠️ Precautions and Warnings
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Requires regular monitoring of:
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Blood counts (for infection risk)
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Kidney and liver function
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Lipid profile and blood glucose
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Use with caution in:
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Patients with existing infections
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Those prone to wound healing complications
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Patients with diabetes, high cholesterol, or impaired immunity
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Avoid live vaccines during therapy. Everolimus may impair wound healing, especially after surgery.
🤒 Side Effects
Common:
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Mouth ulcers (stomatitis)
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Fatigue
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Nausea, diarrhea
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Rash or acne
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Cough, shortness of breath
Serious:
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Increased risk of infections
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Non-infectious pneumonitis (lung inflammation)
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Kidney dysfunction
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Hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia
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Blood cell count reduction (anemia, leukopenia)
Report any persistent fever, breathing difficulty, or unusual bleeding immediately.
🔄 Drug Interactions
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Metabolized by CYP3A4—avoid with:
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Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin)
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CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine)
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Grapefruit juice can increase drug levels—avoid during treatment
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Use caution with immunosuppressive combinations (e.g., cyclosporine)
🧊 Storage Instructions
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Store at 15–30°C in a dry place
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Protect from light and moisture
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Keep out of reach of children
📝 Conclusion
Everolimus 5mg is a versatile and powerful drug used in both oncology and transplantation. Its targeted mechanism offers benefits in controlling tumor progression and preventing organ rejection. With regular monitoring and medical supervision, Everolimus provides long-term control of complex conditions like cancer and transplant outcomes, improving patient quality of life and survival.
Note: This information is intended for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
