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Everolimus

This form:

Pronounced

"E-ver-OH-li-mus"

Common brand names:

Afinitor

Uses

Everolimus is used to treat various types of cancer (such as kidney, breast, pancreas, lung, stomach/intestinal cancers). Everolimus is also used in people with a certain genetic disorder (tuberous sclerosis complex) to treat certain types of benign tumors in the brain or kidney. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer or tumor cells.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking everolimus and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Do not change dosage forms of this medication without checking with your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. You may take this medication with or without food, but it is important to choose one way and take this medication the same way with every dose. Swallow this medication whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablets.

The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, lab tests, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). If you are taking this medication to treat a certain type of benign brain tumor, the dosage is also based on body size.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.

Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of serious side effects will increase.

Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using this medication unless your doctor or pharmacist says you may do so safely. Grapefruit can increase the chance of side effects with this medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Since this drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs and may harm an unborn baby, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication or breathe the dust from the tablets.