Torisel (Temsirolimus Injection) Patient Information: How Should I Take the Drug at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Torisel

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The kidneys

The kidneys are a pair of organs on either side of the spine in the lower abdomen. Each kidney is about the size of a fist. Attached to the top of each kidney is an adrenal gland. A mass of fatty tissue and an outer layer of fibrous tissue (Gerota's fascia) enclose the kidneys and adrenal glands.

The kidneys are part of the urinary tract. They make urine by removing wastes and extra water from the blood. Urine collects in a hollow space (renal pelvis) in the middle of each kidney. It passes from the renal pelvis into the bladder through a tube called a ureter. Urine leaves the body through another tube (the urethra).

The kidneys also make substances that help control blood pressure and the production of red blood cells.

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Torisel User Reviews >>

Torisel

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Torisel Patient Information including How Should I Take

What should I discuss with my doctor before receiving temsirolimus (Torisel)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to temsirolimus.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication:

high cholesterol or triglycerides;
diabetes;
a history of head injury, stroke, or brain tumor; or
if you are allergic to sirolimus (Rapamune).

FDA pregnancy category D. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not receive temsirolimus without telling your doctor if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication and for at least 3 months after your treatment ends.

If a man fathers a child while using this medication, the baby may have birth defects. Use a condom to prevent pregnancy during your treatment. Continue using condoms for at least 3 months after you stop using temsirolimus.

It is not known whether temsirolimus passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not receive this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How is temsirolimus given (Torisel)?

Temsirolimus is given as an injection through a needle placed into a vein. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. The medicine must be given slowly through an IV infusion, and can take up to 1 hour to complete.

Temsirolimus is usually given once each week unless your cancer progresses or you have serious side effects from the medication.

You may receive other medications before your temsirolimus infusion. These medications will help prevent certain side effects.

Temsirolimus can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill. To be sure your blood cells do not get too low, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your kidney function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using temsirolimus. This medication can make it harder for wounds to heal, and you may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.

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