Description
1. Introduction: Afinitor is a prescription medication manufactured by Novartis India Ltd., containing the active substance Everolimus. It belongs to the class of drugs known as mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors and is primarily used in the treatment of various cancers and certain non-cancerous conditions.
2. Mechanism of Action: Everolimus, the active ingredient in Afinitor, inhibits the activity of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) protein, which plays a key role in regulating cell growth, proliferation, and survival. By blocking mTOR signaling pathways, Everolimus helps to slow down the growth and spread of cancer cells and suppress abnormal cell proliferation in non-cancerous conditions.
3. Indications: Afinitor (Everolimus 5 mg Tablet) is indicated for:
- Advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma (Kidney Cancer): Treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) after failure of treatment with other cancer medications.
- Advanced Hormone Receptor-Positive, HER2-Negative Breast Cancer: Treatment of postmenopausal women with advanced hormone receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative breast cancer, in combination with exemestane, after failure of treatment with other cancer medications.
- Neuroendocrine Tumors: Treatment of progressive, well-differentiated, nonfunctional neuroendocrine tumors (NET) of gastrointestinal (GI) or lung origin in adults with unresectable, locally advanced, or metastatic disease.
- Subependymal Giant Cell Astrocytoma (SEGA): Treatment of patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) who have SEGA and are not candidates for surgical resection.
4. Dosage and Administration: The recommended dosage of Afinitor may vary depending on the specific condition being treated, disease stage, and individual patient factors. It is typically taken orally as a tablet, once daily, at the same time each day, with or without food.
5. Monitoring and Side Effects: Patients taking Afinitor may undergo regular monitoring, including blood tests and imaging studies, to evaluate the medication’s effectiveness and detect any potential side effects. Common side effects may include mouth sores, diarrhea, rash, fatigue, nausea, decreased appetite, and peripheral edema. Serious side effects, such as infections, pneumonitis, renal failure, and metabolic abnormalities, may occur but are less common.
6. Precautions: Afinitor should be used with caution in patients with a history of lung disease, liver dysfunction, or kidney impairment. It may interact with certain medications, including strong inhibitors or inducers of cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), and patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications they are taking to avoid potential interactions.
7. Interactions: Everolimus may interact with other medications, supplements, or herbal products. Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all substances they are taking to avoid potential interactions.
8. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Afinitor may cause fetal harm if used during pregnancy. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for a period after discontinuation. It is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women.
9. Duration of Treatment: The duration of treatment with Afinitor varies depending on the individual’s response to therapy, disease progression, and treatment goals. Healthcare providers will determine the appropriate duration and may adjust the treatment plan based on ongoing assessments of efficacy and side effects.
10. Conclusion: Afinitor (Everolimus 5 mg Tablet) manufactured by Novartis India Ltd. is an important medication used in the treatment of various cancers and certain non-cancerous conditions. Its mechanism of action as an mTOR inhibitor provides effective suppression of cell growth and proliferation, helping to control disease progression and improve patient outcomes. Patients prescribed Afinitor should closely follow their healthcare provider’s instructions, undergo regular monitoring, and report any concerns or side effects promptly to ensure optimal treatment outcomes.
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