Name of the Procedure:

Everolimus, Oral, 0.25 mg
Common name(s): Everolimus
Technical or medical terms: Everolimus, RAD001

Summary

Everolimus is an oral medication commonly used to treat various types of cancers and prevent organ rejection after transplant surgery. It works by inhibiting a protein that regulates cell growth and proliferation.

Purpose

Everolimus is used to treat specific types of cancers, such as advanced kidney cancer, certain types of breast cancer, and some forms of neuroendocrine tumors. It is also used to prevent rejection in patients who have undergone kidney or liver transplants by suppressing the immune system.

Indications

• Advanced renal cell carcinoma
• HER2-negative breast cancer in postmenopausal women
• Neuroendocrine tumors of pancreatic origin
• Prevention of organ rejection in kidney and liver transplant recipients

Preparation

• No specific fasting required for taking Everolimus.
• Blood tests may be conducted to assess kidney function, liver function, and complete blood count before starting treatment.
• Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any existing medical conditions, allergies, or medications they are currently taking.

Procedure Description

1. Everolimus is taken orally, typically once daily.
2. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, at the same time each day.
3. No food restrictions, but taking the medication after a meal might reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.

Duration

The medication is taken daily for as long as the healthcare provider deems necessary, typically evaluated periodically.

Setting

Everolimus is usually prescribed and can be taken at home. Regular follow-ups and monitoring will be done on an outpatient basis.

Personnel

• Prescribing Physician (e.g., Oncologist, Transplant Specialist)
• Pharmacist
• Nursing Staff (for follow-up and monitoring)

Risks and Complications

• Common: Mouth sores, rash, fatigue, diarrhea, infection
• Less common: Elevated blood sugar, respiratory problems, kidney dysfunction, allergic reactions

Benefits

• Can slow the progression of certain cancers.
• Reduces the risk of organ rejection in transplant patients.
• Benefits are usually seen within a few weeks to months of starting treatment.

Recovery

• Regular blood tests and follow-up visits with the healthcare provider are necessary.
• Patients should report any unusual side effects or symptoms promptly.
• No significant physical restrictions, but patients may need to adjust activities based on how they feel.

Alternatives

• Other cancer treatments: surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, other targeted therapies.
• Other immunosuppressive drugs in transplant patients.
• Each alternative has its own set of pros and cons; for instance, chemotherapy may be more aggressive but might not be suitable for all patients, while other immunosuppressants may have different side effect profiles.

Patient Experience

• Patients might experience mild to moderate side effects which can be managed with supportive care.
• Pain is not typically associated with taking oral medication, but gastrointestinal discomfort may be present.
• Emotional and psychological support may be beneficial, particularly for cancer patients.