Afinitor (everolimus) is a targeted cancer medicine used to slow the growth of certain tumours. It belongs to a class of medicines called mTOR inhibitors, which work by blocking a protein in cancer cells that helps them grow and divide.

Afinitor is used to treat:

• Advanced kidney cancer (renal cell carcinoma) that has progressed after other treatments
• Hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative advanced breast cancer, in combination with a hormone therapy called exemestane, in post-menopausal women
• Advanced pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (pNET)
• Subependymal giant cell astrocytoma (SEGA), a type of brain tumour associated with a condition called tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC)

Afinitor is not a chemotherapy drug. It targets a specific pathway that cancer cells rely on, making it a more directed treatment option.

Your dose:

Your doctor will prescribe the dose that is right for your condition. The usual dose is one tablet taken once daily. Always follow your doctor's instructions and do not change your dose without consulting them.

How to take it:

• Take Afinitor at the same time every day
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew it
• You can take it with or without food, but be consistent. Choose one and stick to it
• Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while on Afinitor, as it can increase the amount of medicine in your blood

Before you start:

• Tell your doctor about all other medicines, vitamins, and supplements you are taking
• Let your doctor know if you have any history of lung problems, infections, liver disease, or high blood sugar
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as Afinitor can harm an unborn baby

Ongoing check-ups:

You will need regular blood tests and check-ups while on Afinitor to monitor your blood sugar, kidney function, cholesterol, and blood counts. Your doctor will also check for any signs of lung problems. These monitoring appointments are essential, so do not skip them.

• If you remember on the same day: take the missed dose as soon as you can
• If it is nearly time for your next dose: skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Never take two doses on the same day to catch up
  

If you are not sure what to do, call your doctor or pharmacist.

If you think you have taken more than prescribed, call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department straight away.

Signs that something might be wrong include:

• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Signs of infection: fever, chills, or feeling very unwell
• Shortness of breath or chest tightness
• Mouth sores

Tell the medical team exactly how much you took and when. Bring your medicine packet if you can.

• Store at room temperature, below 25°C
• Keep in the original packaging, away from moisture and light
• Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink
• Keep out of reach of children and pets

Side effects are common with Afinitor. Knowing what to look out for helps you manage them early.

• Mouth sores (stomatitis): One of the most common side effects. Use a gentle, alcohol-free mouthwash and tell your doctor if sores become painful or make it hard to eat
• Infections: Afinitor lowers your immune response, so you are more susceptible to infections. See your doctor quickly if you develop a fever or feel unwell
• Lung problems (non-infectious pneumonitis): Some people develop inflammation in the lungs, causing shortness of breath or a dry cough. Tell your doctor straight away if this happens
• Tiredness and weakness: Very common. Rest when you need to and let your care team know if it is affecting your daily life
• High blood sugar: Afinitor can raise blood sugar levels. You may need more frequent monitoring if you have or are at risk of diabetes
• High cholesterol and triglycerides: Your doctor will monitor your blood fats during treatment
• Skin rash: A mild rash is common. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and use sunscreen
• Nausea and decreased appetite: Usually manageable. Eating small, frequent meals may help
  

Contact your doctor or pharmacist if any side effect concerns you, even if it is not listed here.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about everything you are taking before starting Afinitor. Important interactions include:

• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin, and some HIV medicines): These can significantly increase everolimus levels in your blood, raising the risk of serious side effects
• Strong CYP3A4 inducers (such as rifampicin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, and St John's Wort): These can reduce how well Afinitor works
• Live vaccines: Avoid live vaccines while on Afinitor. Discuss any upcoming vaccinations with your doctor
• Grapefruit and grapefruit juice: Can increase everolimus levels. Avoid these throughout treatment
  

Never start, stop, or change any medicine without speaking to your doctor first.

Can Afinitor cure my cancer?

Afinitor is not a cure. Its goal is to slow the growth and spread of cancer and extend the time before the disease progresses. Many people on Afinitor are able to maintain a reasonable quality of life while managing their condition.

How long will I need to take Afinitor?

Treatment continues for as long as it is working and you are tolerating it. Your doctor will reassess your response to treatment at regular intervals and let you know if any changes are needed.

What should I do about mouth sores?

Mouth sores (stomatitis) are one of the most common side effects of Afinitor. Rinse your mouth with a bland, alcohol-free mouthwash several times a day. Avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or iodine. If sores are severe or not improving, let your doctor know, as they may adjust your dose.

Ace provides accurate and independent information medically reviewed on prescription medications. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.