Sirolimus

Drug Class:	Commonly Known As:	Category:
mTOR Kinase Inhibitor	Rapamune®	Cancer-related, Children, Adult

Sirolimus - What is it for

Sirolimus is a medicine that suppresses the immune system. It is used to treat certain types of cancer.

It is also used to treat vascular malformations, which are abnormalities in the development of blood vessels. These malformations vary in size and location within the body.

Sirolimus - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Sirolimus cause?

Nausea and/or vomiting may sometimes occur when you first start taking Sirolimus
Acne
Mild to moderate headache
Slight indigestion or diarrhea may sometimes occur
Increased cholesterol or lipid levels
Your blood cholesterol should be monitored regularly. Discuss a proper follow-up plan with your doctor.
Body aches and tiredness on some days.
Try to avoid heavy-duty work or long outings on such days.

Inform your doctor if you experience any of the following:

Allergic reactions – rashes, swelling, breathing difficulty
Rapid heartbeat or chest pain
Signs of infection – fever or chills, cough, sore throat, pain or difficulty in urinating
Signs of bleeding – bruising, black tarry stools, blood in the urine
Unusual weakness, tiredness or light-headedness

Before taking Sirolimus , what precautions must I follow?

Use effective birth control before treatment, during treatment and for at least 12 weeks after stopping treatment.
Do not take medicines and supplements without first informing your doctor and pharmacist.
Avoid going to crowded places or being near sick people to minimize your risk of getting an infection.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Sirolimus ?

Avoid grapefruit and its juice while you are on Sirolimus.

Sirolimus - Dosage and How to Use

How should Sirolimus be used?

It is a tablet taken by mouth, with a glass of plain water. It should be taken consistently with or without food. Take the exact number of tablets instructed by your doctor.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of Sirolimus, take it as soon as you remember. If it is too near your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your usual dosing. Do not double the dose.