Afinitor Disperz

Afinitor Disperzis used to treat children (1 year of age or older) and adults with Subependymal Giant Cell Astrocytoma (SEGA), a brain tumour seen with a genetic condition called Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC). For these patients, their disease will have progressed and cannot be treated with surgery. As well, they will not need immediate surgery.
Children (2 years of age or older) and adults with seizures associated with TSC. For these patients, their seizures are not well controlled with antiepileptic medicines.
Afinitor Disperzis the only formulation that should be used for the treatment of patients with seizures associated with TSC.

Benefits

• Inhibits abnormal cell growth by blocking the mTOR pathway
• Controls seizure frequency in TSC-associated partial-onset seizures
• Reduces the size of subependymal giant cell astrocytomas (SEGAs) in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC)
• Shrinks renal angiomyolipomas (benign kidney tumors) associated with TSC
• Oral dispersible tablets suitable for children and patients with swallowing difficulties
• Allows individualized pediatric dosing (comes in lower-dose strengths: 2 mg, 3 mg, 5 mg)
• Helps delay the need for surgery in SEGA cases

Dosage

• Always consult a pediatric oncologist or neurologist for exact dosing. Dose is individualized based on body surface area (BSA), indication, and tolerability.
• Typical dosing ranges from 4.5 mg/m²/day for SEGA to 5.0 mg/m²/day for seizures (TSC).
• Taken once daily, dispersed in water (do not chew or swallow whole).
• Administer at the same time each day, consistently with or without food.

Warnings and Precautions

• Risk of infections (bacterial, viral, fungal) due to immunosuppressive action
• Monitor for non-infectious pneumonitis and mouth ulcers
• May increase cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar
• Impaired wound healing – suspend before and after major surgery
• May cause renal function decline, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney issues
• Risk of delayed growth in pediatric patients (monitor height and weight regularly)

Usage Instructions

• Disperse tablet(s) in 30 mL of water without crushing. Stir gently for ~3 minutes until fully dispersed.
• Drink immediately and rinse the glass with an additional 30 mL to ensure full dose intake.
• Do not mix with juice or milk.
• If vomiting occurs within 15 minutes, a repeat dose may be considered (consult doctor).

Storage Information

• Store at room temperature (20–25°C)
• 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.