What are the side effects of taking everolimus?

The side effects of everolimus involve many aspects, including local reactions and systemic symptoms. The following is a detailed summary of these side effects:

1. Local reaction

Stomatitis: This is one of the most common side effects of everolimus, manifested as a reaction of the oral mucosa, such as oral ulcers, oral pain, etc. The treatment is to keep your mouth clean, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild toothpaste, and avoid irritating foods. If symptoms are severe, discontinue use and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Skin reaction: Everolimus may cause local skin edema and swelling, rash, erythema, nail fracture and other skin lesions. Treatment is to keep skin clean and dry, use mild cleansing products and moisturizer, and avoid direct sunlight.

Other local reactions: also include edema and swelling in the face, arms and other limb areas, changes in skin properties on the lips, tongue and other parts, as well as lower back pain, difficulty urinating, etc.

2. Systemic symptoms

Infections: Everolimus may reduce a patient's immunity and increase the risk of infection. Common infections include respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, etc. The treatment method is to use broad-spectrum antibiotics for anti-infective treatment, or select antibiotics based on the results of bacterial culture.

Gastrointestinal reactions: including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, etc. The treatment method is to give metoclopramide and other drugs for symptomatic treatment, and at the same time, pay attention to the diet should be light and easy to digest.

Weight changes: Everolimus may cause weight gain or loss. This may be related to the metabolism of the drug and the patient's living habits.

Fatigue and weakness: This is one of the common systemic symptoms of everolimus, manifesting as listlessness and general weakness. The solution is to get enough rest and sleep to avoid overexertion.

Other systemic symptoms: also include hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, exacerbation of diabetes or new onset of diabetes, renal failure, etc. These symptoms are usually serious and require prompt medical attention and treatment as prescribed.

References:

https://ctep.cancer.gov/protocolDevelopment/docs/sideeffects/SideEffects-Everolimus.docx