IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

EVEROLIMUS (TRANSPLANT) - ORAL

(/E-ver-OH-li-mus)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zortress

WARNING: Everolimus lowers the body's ability to fight infection/disease (immunosuppression). This may increase your risk of infection or certain types of cancer (such as skin cancer, lymphoma). Everolimus may also cause kidney problems, especially within the first 30 days after kidney transplant. Carefully follow your doctor's directions on how to take this medication. Keep all medical and laboratory appointments.

Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following: unusual skin changes, change in the appearance/size of moles, unusual growths/lumps, swollen glands, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, signs of infection (such as fever, persistent sore throat), change in the amount of urine, bloody/foamy urine, severe abdominal pain.

USES: Everolimus is used with other medications (such as cyclosporine) to prevent rejection of a kidney transplant. This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as immunosuppressants. It works by weakening your body's defense system (immune system) to help your body accept the new organ as if it were your own.

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking everolimus and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually every 12 hours with your cyclosporine dose. You may take this medication with or without food, but it is important to choose one way and take this medication the same way with every dose. Swallow this medication whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets.

Dosage is based on your medical condition, laboratory tests, interacting drugs, and response to treatment.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.

Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often without your doctor's approval. Your condition will not improve any faster and the risk of serious side effects may be increased.

Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using this medication unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Grapefruit can increase the amount of this medication in your bloodstream. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Since this drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication or breathe the dust from the tablets.