Everolimus

Definition

Everolimus is an immunosuppressant drug that belongs to the class of mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) inhibitors, primarily used to prevent organ transplant rejection and treat certain cancers. It works by inhibiting cell proliferation and angiogenesis, leading to decreased immune response and tumor growth. This makes it a crucial medication in managing conditions where modulation of the immune system is necessary.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Everolimus is primarily indicated for use in kidney and liver transplants to prevent rejection.
2. It is also used in the treatment of various types of cancer, including renal cell carcinoma and neuroendocrine tumors.
3. The drug functions by blocking the mTOR pathway, which is vital for cell growth and metabolism.
4. Common side effects of everolimus include mouth ulcers, infections, and an increased risk of developing other malignancies due to immunosuppression.
5. Monitoring of blood levels is essential for everolimus to ensure therapeutic effectiveness and minimize toxicity.

Review Questions

• How does everolimus function as an immunosuppressant, and what are its primary applications?
  • Everolimus functions by inhibiting the mTOR pathway, which is crucial for cell growth and immune response. By blocking this pathway, everolimus decreases the proliferation of immune cells that can lead to transplant rejection. Its primary applications include preventing organ rejection in kidney and liver transplants, as well as treating specific cancers such as renal cell carcinoma and neuroendocrine tumors.
• Discuss the implications of using everolimus in transplant patients regarding their long-term health and risk factors.
  • Using everolimus in transplant patients significantly reduces the risk of organ rejection, enhancing short-term success rates. However, it also comes with long-term health implications such as a heightened risk for infections due to immunosuppression. Additionally, patients on everolimus may face an increased risk of developing malignancies over time, necessitating careful monitoring and management of their overall health.
• Evaluate the role of mTOR inhibitors like everolimus in modern therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment.
  • The role of mTOR inhibitors like everolimus in cancer treatment has gained prominence due to their ability to disrupt key signaling pathways involved in tumor growth and survival. By inhibiting mTOR, everolimus not only slows down tumor progression but also enhances the effectiveness of other therapeutic agents when used in combination. This strategic approach underscores a shift towards targeted therapies that aim to improve patient outcomes while minimizing adverse effects associated with traditional chemotherapies.

Related terms

mTOR: A protein kinase that regulates cell growth, proliferation, motility, survival, and protein synthesis, playing a key role in the signaling pathways affected by everolimus.

Transplant Rejection: A process where the immune system attacks transplanted organs or tissues, which everolimus helps prevent by suppressing immune activity.

Angiogenesis: The formation of new blood vessels, which can be inhibited by everolimus, thereby restricting tumor growth and metastasis.