Temsirolimus
About Temsirolimus
Temsirolimus belongs to the group of anti-cancer medicines called kinase inhibitors used to treat advanced renal cell carcinoma (a type of cancer that begins in the kidney). It may also be used for previously treated mantle cell lymphoma (a type of cancer affecting the lymph nodes).
Temsirolimus contains Temsirolimus, which works by blocking the action of abnormal proteins needed for cancer cells to multiply. This helps slow the growth of tumours. Thereby, it helps treat kidney cancer.
In some cases, Temsirolimus may cause side effects such as diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, constipation, headache, fever, and decreased appetite. Most of these side effects may not require medical attention and resolve over time. Do not be reluctant to talk with your doctor if any of these side effects persist or worsen.
Consult the doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Temsirolimus is not recommended for children below 18 years as the effectiveness has not been established. Keep your doctor informed about your health condition and medications to rule out any side effects/interactions.
Uses of Temsirolimus
Medicinal Benefits
Temsirolimus belongs to the group of anti-cancer medicines called kinase inhibitors used to treat advanced renal cell carcinoma (a type of cancer that begins in the kidney). It may also be used for previously treated mantle cell lymphoma (a type of cancer affecting the lymph nodes). Temsirolimus contains Temsirolimus, a selective inhibitor of the enzyme mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) that blocks tumour cell growth and division. Thereby, it helps treat kidney cancer.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Temsirolimus
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Headache
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Sores or inflammation in the mouth
- Cough
Drug Warnings
Do not use Temsirolimus if you are allergic to any of its components if you are allergic to sirolimus (immunosuppressant), or if you have mantle cell lymphoma or liver problems. Inform the doctor if you are allergic to or cannot use anti-histamines if you have/had a tumour in the brain or spinal cord, bruising/bleeding problems, infections, inflammation of lungs, liver or kidney problems, high cholesterol levels, diabetes, eye problems, if you are taking anticoagulants if you drink alcohol or are alcoholic if you are due to undergo any vaccination or surgery, or if you are over 65 years of age. Consult the doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Temsirolimus is not recommended for children below 18 years as the effectiveness has not been established.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Inform the doctor if you are taking protease inhibitors, antibiotics (rifampicin), anti-fungal (itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole), anti-depressant (nefazodone), anti-epileptics (carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital), anti-HIV (rifabutin), herbal medicine (St. John’s wort), ACE inhibitors (enalapril, ramipril, lisinopril), calcium channel blocker (amlodipine), anti-arrhythmic agents (amiodarone), medicines for high cholesterol (statins), or chemotherapy agent (sunitinib).
Drug-Food Interactions: Avoid grapefruit/grapefruit juice while on treatment with Temsirolimus as these might increase the amount of Temsirolimus in blood.
Drug-Disease Interactions: Inform the doctor if you have diabetes, high cholesterol, kidney, lung, or liver problems, tumours in the brain or spinal cord, bowel perforation, bleeding problems, or wound healing complications.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
consult your doctorIt is not known if alcohol interacts with Temsirolimus. Please consult the doctor.
Pregnancy
cautionTemsirolimus may cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant women. Temsirolimus should not be used during pregnancy unless clearly necessary. Consult the doctor if you are pregnant, planning for pregnancy, or thinking you may be pregnant.
Breast Feeding
unsafeAvoid breastfeeding while using Temsirolimus and for three weeks after the last dose.
Driving
not applicableTemsirolimus is unlikely to affect your ability to drive.
Liver
cautionTemsirolimus is not recommended in patients with liver problems. Consult the doctor if you have/had liver problems.
Kidney
cautionPlease consult the doctor if you have kidney impairment or any concerns regarding this. Your doctor may monitor kidney function while on treatment with this medicine.
Children
unsafeTemsirolimus is not recommended for children below 18 years as effectiveness has not been established.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly to maintain proper weight.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.
- Include vegetables, whole grains and fruits in your diet.
- Avoid fast, fried foods, processed meats, highly processed foods and beverages, and salty snacks.
- Get optimal sleep; rest well.
Special Advise
Females of reproductive potential and males with partners of reproductive potential must use effective contraception during treatment and for three months after the last dose.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Renal cell carcinoma: Renal cell carcinoma, also known as kidney cancer or renal cell adenocarcinoma, is a type of cancer in which cancer cells are found in the lining of tubules in the kidney. Smoking and certain pain medicines may affect the risk of renal cell cancer. Symptoms include blood in the urine, a lump in the abdomen, pain in the side that does not go away, anaemia, loss of appetite, and weight loss for no known reason.
FAQs
Temsirolimus works by blocking tumour cell growth and division. Thereby, it helps treat kidney cancer.
Temsirolimus may result in immunosuppression, leading to an increased risk of infections. Wash your hands frequently and avoid contact with sick people.
Vaccination may be less effective if taken during treatment with Temsirolimus. Also, some vaccinations should be avoided during treatment. Therefore, do not have any vaccinations without consulting the doctor.
Fertility may be compromised during treatment with Temsirolimus. Consult the doctor if you have any concerns.
