Afinitor (everolimus) is used to treat certain types of kidney cancer, breast cancer, or brain tumor. It interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows their spread in the body. It is usually given after other cancer medications have been tried without successful treatment. This medication is also used to treat non-cancerous (benign) kidney tumors, and certain types of advanced or progressive tumors of the pancreas.

Manufacturer Information

We currently have the brand (also known as Certican) from Canada and Turkey manufactured by Novartis. There is no generic available. Afinitor is available in strengths: 0.25mg, 0.75mg, 2.5mg, 5mg and 10mg.

Common side effects may include:

• Diarrhea, mild stomach pain or nausea;
• Headache;
• Mild skin rash

Stop using Afinitor and call your doctor if you have:

• Cough, wheezing, feeling of short of breath;
• Fever, swollen gums, painful mouth sores, pain when swallowing, tired feeling, cold or flu symptoms;
• Nausea, pain in your upper stomach, itching, joint pain, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay- colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes);
• Pain or burning when you urinate;
• Pale skin, easy bruising, unusual bleeding;
• Seizure;
• Swelling, rapid weight gain

You should not use Afinitor if you are allergic to everolimus, sirolimus (Rapamune), tacrolimus (Prograf), or temsirolimus (Torisel). Afinitor can affect fertility (your ability to have children), whether you are a man or woman. It can also lower blood cells that help your body fight infections and help your blood to clot. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Afinitor and lead to unwanted side effects. Avoid the use of grapefruit products while taking this medicine. Many drugs can interact with Afinitor. Tell your doctor about all your medications and any you start or stop using during treatment with Afinitor.