Side Effects of Afinitor (Everolimus)
Afinitor (everolimus) is an oral medication used to treat certain types of cancer, including breast cancer, kidney cancer, and pancreatic cancer, as well as certain benign tumors and other conditions. It belongs to a class of drugs called mTOR inhibitors, which work by slowing down the growth of cancer cells and tumors. While effective, it can cause a range of side effects, from mild to severe.
Common Side Effects:
- Mouth Sores (Stomatitis):
- Mouth ulcers or sores are one of the most frequently reported side effects. These sores can be painful and make eating or drinking uncomfortable.
- Fatigue:
- Many patients on Afinitor report fatigue or tiredness as the medication can impact energy levels.
- Rash:
- Skin rashes are common and can vary in severity. Some patients experience mild irritation, while others may have more significant skin reactions.
- Infections:
- Afinitor can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of infections such as upper respiratory infections, pneumonia, or urinary tract infections. These infections may be more frequent or severe.
- Nausea and Diarrhea:
- Gastrointestinal issues, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, are common. Some individuals also experience loss of appetite and weight loss.
- Shortness of Breath:
- Some patients may experience difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, particularly if they develop lung-related complications.
Serious Side Effects:
- Pneumonitis:
- Afinitor can cause a severe lung condition called noninfectious pneumonitis, characterized by inflammation of the lung tissue. Symptoms include shortness of breath, cough, and chest pain. This condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
- Kidney Damage:
- Kidney problems may arise, especially in patients already at risk of kidney disease. Symptoms of kidney issues include swelling, fatigue, and decreased urine output.
- Liver Dysfunction:
- Afinitor may cause liver problems, especially in individuals with pre-existing liver conditions. Symptoms include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or severe fatigue.
- Elevated Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia):
- Afinitor can cause high blood sugar levels, potentially leading to or worsening diabetes. Symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue.
- Low Blood Cell Counts:
- Afinitor may reduce the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, leading to conditions like anemia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia. These conditions increase the risk of infections, fatigue, and abnormal bleeding or bruising.
- Increased Cholesterol and Triglycerides:
- Afinitor can cause elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels, increasing the risk of heart disease or other cardiovascular problems.
Who Should Avoid Afinitor?
- Individuals with severe liver disease should use Afinitor cautiously.
- Those with a history of lung disease or who are prone to infections may need careful monitoring.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid Afinitor due to potential harm to the fetus or baby.
Tips to Minimize Side Effects:
- Oral hygiene: To reduce the risk of mouth sores, maintain proper oral hygiene and use mouth rinses as recommended by your healthcare provider.
- Stay hydrated and follow your healthcare provider’s dietary recommendations to manage gastrointestinal side effects.
- Regular blood tests may be required to monitor kidney function, liver health, and blood cell counts.
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