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Everolimus Oral Tablet 0.5 mg (EVEROLIMUS (TRANSPLANT) - ORAL)

For protection of organ transplant.

Brand Name(s): Zortress

Generic Name: Everolimus

Instructions

Swallow the medicine without crushing or chewing it.

This medicine may be taken with or without food, but it is important to take it the same way each time.

Swallow with a full glass (8 oz) of water unless your doctor gives you different instructions.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

Avoid grapefruit juice while on this medicine.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is less than 6 hours to the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses of this medicine at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

This medicine may cause higher blood sugar levels or diabetes. Please follow your doctor's instructions and check your blood sugar level regularly while on this medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

May cause mouth sores. Brush teeth gently. Avoid products containing alcohol. Rinse mouth with a mixture of water and baking soda or salt.

Some patients on this medicine have developed severe, life-threatening infections. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.

This medicine may increase the risk of cancer. Ask your doctor about the benefits and risks.

This medicine is associated with an increased risk for serious blood clots. Speak with your doctor about the benefits and risks from using this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

Do not breastfeed while on this medicine. You may safely start breastfeeding 2 weeks after stopping treatment.

This medicine can hurt a new baby in the womb. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.

Women must use reliable forms of birth control while taking this medicine and for 2 months after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Men with a female partner who is of childbearing age must use a condom during sexual activity while taking this medicine and for 4 weeks after stopping to prevent pregnancy.

Women who are pregnant or in their childbearing years should not touch or handle this medicine. This medicine can be absorbed through the woman's skin and harm the unborn baby.

This medicine may reduce sperm count.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.

Always refill this medicine before it runs out.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • decreased appetite
  • constipation
  • nosebleeds
  • headaches
  • high blood sugar
  • kidney problems
  • mouth sores or irritation
  • nausea and vomiting
  • sore throat
  • weight loss

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • decreased awareness or responsiveness
  • back pain
  • loss of balance
  • bleeding or bruising
  • wheezing or difficulty breathing
  • chest pain
  • difficulty concentrating
  • confusion
  • swelling of the face, mouth, tongue or throat
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • sudden leg pain, swelling, warmth or redness
  • menstruation changes (missed or fewer periods)
  • mood changes
  • muscle weakness
  • red, burning, or itchy skin
  • seizures
  • problems with sexual functions or desire
  • shortness of breath
  • skin changes - a darker area with uneven edges or coloring
  • change in the size or color of a skin mole
  • difficulty speaking
  • slurred speech
  • unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
  • increased urinary frequency
  • urinating less often
  • blood in urine
  • blurring or changes of vision
  • slow wound healing

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

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