Everolimus (Afinitor, Zortress) weakens the immune system, which increases the risk of infections and delayed wound healing. Patients taking Everolimus should be monitored for signs of infection, and live vaccines should be avoided during treatment.
What is Zortress (Everolimus)?
Zortress (everolimus) is an immunosuppressant medication used to prevent organ rejection in patients who have undergone kidney or liver transplants. As mentioned above, it works by weakening the immune system to reduce the risk of the body attacking the transplanted organ. By blocking a key protein called mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin), Zortress reduces immune cell activity, allowing the transplanted organ to function in its new environment.
What Does Zortress Treat?
Zortress is specifically prescribed for:
- Kidney transplant recipients: It is used in adults who have received a kidney transplant, in combination with other immunosuppressive drugs such as basiliximab, cyclosporine, and corticosteroids.
- Liver transplant recipients: Zortress can also be used in liver transplant patients but is typically prescribed after the initial immunosuppressive therapy period, usually once the liver has stabilized post-transplant.
Isn’t Everolimus also Afinitor?
Yes, Everolimus is also marketed under the brand name Afinitor, but the two medications serve different purposes. While Zortress (everolimus) is primarily used as an immunosuppressant to prevent organ rejection in kidney and liver transplant patients, Afinitor is used to treat certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer, kidney cancer, and some rare tumors. Although both medications contain everolimus, they have different dosing regimens and are prescribed for distinct conditions based on their specific formulations and therapeutic goals.
Who Can Take Zortress?
Zortress is approved for adults (18 years and older) who have received a kidney or liver transplant. It is important for patients to follow their healthcare provider’s guidance regarding dosage and other medications they may need to take in conjunction with Zortress to prevent organ rejection.
Important Considerations Before Starting Zortress:
- Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to Everolimus, Sirolimus, or any of the other ingredients in Zortress.
- Other Medical Conditions: Tell your doctor if you have liver problems, high cholesterol, or a history of infections.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Zortress may cause harm to an unborn baby, so it is crucial to use effective birth control while on this medication and for eight weeks after discontinuing it. Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Zortress.
How to Take Zortress
Zortress is usually taken twice a day, around the same time each day. It can be taken with or without food but should be taken consistently with the same schedule. It is important to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking this medication, as it can increase the levels of Zortress in your blood, leading to unwanted side effects.
Patients should take Zortress exactly as prescribed and should not skip doses. Missing doses may increase the risk of transplant rejection or reduce the effectiveness of the drug. If a dose is missed, patients should contact their healthcare provider for advice.
Potential Side Effects
Like all medications, Zortress comes with the potential for side effects. Some of the common side effects include:
- Infections: Since Zortress suppresses the immune system, patients are at a higher risk of infections, which can range from mild to severe. It is essential to report any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or cough, to a healthcare provider immediately.
- Kidney problems: Zortress can affect kidney function, particularly when taken with cyclosporine. Patients should have regular kidney function tests.
- Mouth ulcers or sores: This is a common side effect that may require treatment with a mouth rinse or medication.
- Increased cholesterol or triglycerides: Zortress can raise lipid levels, so regular blood tests may be needed to monitor cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
- Delayed wound healing: Patients may experience slower healing of surgical wounds or incisions.
- High blood pressure: Blood pressure may need to be monitored regularly, as Zortress can contribute to elevated blood pressure.
- Diabetes: Zortress may increase blood sugar levels, leading to new or worsening diabetes.
- Pneumonitis: Rarely, Zortress can cause a serious lung problem called pneumonitis, which requires immediate medical attention if symptoms like shortness of breath or coughing develop.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Patients taking Zortress may need to make some lifestyle changes to minimize complications:
- Avoiding infection risks: Since Zortress weakens the immune system, patients should avoid crowded places, minimize contact with people who are sick, and practice good hygiene.
- Healthy diet: Patients should maintain a balanced diet low in cholesterol and triglycerides, especially since Zortress can raise these levels. Additionally, avoiding grapefruit and grapefruit juice is essential.
- Sun protection: Because Zortress can increase the risk of skin cancer, patients should wear protective clothing and use sunscreen when exposed to the sun.
Monitoring While on Zortress
Regular follow-up appointments and lab tests are crucial for monitoring the effectiveness of Zortress and minimizing side effects. These tests may include:
- Blood tests to monitor kidney function, cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar levels.
- Frequent checks on blood pressure.
- Monitoring for signs of infection or other complications.
Our Final Thoughts
Starting Zortress can feel overwhelming, but with proper management and support from healthcare providers, it can help ensure the long-term success of a kidney or liver transplant. Patients should stay in close communication with their healthcare team to address any concerns, side effects, or lifestyle adjustments. Regular monitoring and adherence to the prescribed regimen will help achieve the best outcomes.
If you’re starting Zortress or have questions about your prescription, speak to your QuickRx pharmacist or healthcare provider to ensure you understand how to take the medication safely and effectively.
