Afinitor

Afinitor is a cancer medicine that interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows their spread in the body.
Afinitor is used to treat certain types of kidney cancer, breast cancer, or brain tumor. It is also used to treat certain types of advanced or progressive tumors of the stomach, intestines, or pancreas.
Afinitor is also used to treat certain types of seizures or non-cancerous (benign) tumors of the brain or kidney in people with a genetic condition called tuberous sclerosis complex.

Benefits

• Inhibits cancer cell growth and delays disease progression
• Blocks the mTOR pathway, essential for tumor cell multiplication
• Reduces formation of new blood vessels (anti-angiogenic effect)
• Suppresses tumor cell metabolism and proliferation
• Shrinks certain benign tumors (such as SEGAs and renal angiomyolipomas in TSC)
• May delay the need for chemotherapy in specific advanced tumors

Dosage

 The recommended dosage varies by condition and patient factors (weight, kidney/liver function). Follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor.

• Typically ranges from 5 mg to 10 mg once daily, taken at the same time each day.
• Taken orally, with or without food.
• Do not crush or chew the tablets.

Warnings and Precautions

• Immunosuppression: Increases the risk of infections.
• Lung toxicity: Non-infectious pneumonitis may occur.
• Liver problems: Monitor liver function regularly.
• Hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia: May worsen diabetes or cholesterol levels.
• Kidney function: Requires regular monitoring.
• Wound healing complications: Avoid use around the time of surgery.
• Fertility issues: May affect reproductive ability in both men and women.
• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Usage Instructions

• Take once daily at the same time, with a full glass of water.
• Can be taken with or without food, but stay consistent.
• Do not skip doses; if missed, take it within 6 hours, otherwise skip.
• Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice – it may increase drug levels.
• Follow regular blood tests and check-ups as advised by your doctor.

Storage Information

• Store at room temperature (20–25°C or 68–77°F).
• Keep out of reach of children.

Common Side Effects

Mild effects: Mouth sores (stomatitis),fatigue, rash, diarrhoea, headache, nausea, loss of appetite, weight loss, cough
Serious effects (seek medical help): Signs of lung issues: Shortness of breath, cough, chest pain, Infections: Fever, chills, sore throat or Liver problems: Yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine.