Everolimus is a therapeutic drug monitoring test that measures the concentration of everolimus in the blood. Everolimus is an immunosuppressive medication commonly used after organ transplantation and in certain cancers and other conditions. The test is needed to ensure drug levels remain within the appropriate therapeutic range, helping maintain treatment effectiveness while reducing the risk of toxicity, particularly when doses or other medications are changed.
Everolimus has a relatively narrow therapeutic range, and blood levels can vary between individuals due to factors such as drug interactions, liver function, and other medicines.
A high level may increase the risk of side effects or toxicity. The result should be interpreted together with the dose, timing of collection, symptoms, and clinical condition.
A low level may indicate inadequate drug exposure and could potentially reduce treatment effectiveness, depending on the condition being treated.
Certainly. Absorption, metabolism, liver function, genetics, age, other medicines, and adherence to treatment can affect blood concentrations.
Food can influence the absorption of everolimus. It is generally important to take the medicine consistently with respect to meals, according to your doctor's instructions.