Everolimus

What is Everolimus blood test?

Everolimus is an immunosuppressant medication used mainly to prevent organ transplant rejection and to treat certain cancers. Monitoring its blood levels is important to ensure the drug stays within the therapeutic range—enough to be effective but not too high to cause toxicity. Everolimus blood test measures the concentration of everolimus in a patient’s whole blood sample collected in tubes containing EDTA or heparin as anticoagulants.

Why consider Everolimus blood test?

Everolimus blood test can be considered for

• Therapeutic drug monitoring: Everolimus has a narrow therapeutic window, meaning the effective dose and toxic dose are close.
• Avoid toxicity: High blood levels can cause side effects such as infections, kidney problems, mouth ulcers, and others.
• Ensure efficacy: Low levels may lead to transplant rejection or ineffective cancer treatment.
• Dose adjustment: Helps doctors tailor the dose based on the individual’s metabolism, drug interactions, and organ function.
• Assess adherence: Confirms if the patient is taking medication as prescribed.

Who should get tested for Everolimus blood test?

Everolimus blood test can be recommended for

• Patients on everolimus therapy for organ transplantation (kidney, liver, heart, etc.) and certain cancers such as renal cell carcinoma, breast cancer, neuroendocrine tumors, and others
• Patients experiencing side effects or signs of rejection to evaluate if drug levels are appropriate
• Individuals with potential drug interactions or changes in kidney or liver function that could affect drug metabolism
• Patients requiring routine monitoring as part of their treatment plan

More Information

OTHER NAMES: Everolimus Blood Level, Everolimus Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, Everolimus TDM (Therapeutic Drug Monitoring)

Everolimus is a prescription medication that belongs to a class called mTOR inhibitors (mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors). It works by suppressing the immune system and inhibiting cell growth and proliferation.