CERTICAN 0.75 MG 60 TB

CERTICAN (Everolimus) 0.25 mg Tablets is an immunosuppressant medication primarily used to prevent organ rejection in patients who have undergone kidney, liver, or heart transplantation. Everolimus, the active ingredient in CERTICAN, is also used in certain cancers and other conditions requiring immune system modulation. It works by inhibiting a protein called mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin), which is involved in cell growth, proliferation, and survival. By suppressing the immune response, CERTICAN helps to reduce the risk of organ rejection and modulate cell growth in cancer.

How CERTICAN Works

Mechanism of Action

1. Inhibition of mTOR Pathway:
   • Everolimus inhibits the mTOR pathway, a critical regulator of cell growth and immune response. By blocking mTOR, CERTICAN prevents T-cell activation and proliferation, reducing the body’s immune response.
2. Reduction of Cytokine Production:
   • CERTICAN reduces the production of cytokines, which are signaling molecules that stimulate immune cells. This suppression helps to prevent the body from attacking transplanted organs.
3. Antiproliferative Effects:
   • In addition to its immunosuppressive properties, CERTICAN has antiproliferative effects, making it effective in treating certain cancers by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.
4. Maintaining Therapeutic Immunosuppression:
   • CERTICAN is often used in combination with other immunosuppressive drugs, such as cyclosporine, to achieve balanced and effective suppression of the immune system, minimizing the risk of rejection while reducing the likelihood of side effects associated with high doses of a single immunosuppressant.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Infections:
  • Due to immune suppression, there is an increased risk of bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.
• Mouth Ulcers:
  • Painful mouth sores or ulcers can occur as a side effect.
• High Blood Pressure:
  • An increase in blood pressure is common and should be monitored regularly.
• Diarrhea:
  • Gastrointestinal disturbances, including diarrhea, are frequently reported.
• Rash:
  • Skin rashes, itching, and other dermatological reactions may occur.

Serious Side Effects

• Kidney Dysfunction:
  • CERTICAN may cause impaired kidney function, especially when used with other nephrotoxic drugs.
• Lung Problems:
  • Non-infectious pneumonitis, a lung inflammation, can occur, which may require discontinuation of the drug.
• Increased Cholesterol and Triglycerides:
  • Elevated lipid levels are common and may necessitate dietary changes or medication.
• Delayed Wound Healing:
  • Everolimus can impair wound healing, making it less suitable for patients undergoing surgery.
• Blood Disorders:
  • Anemia, low platelet count, or leukopenia can occur, necessitating regular blood monitoring.

Indications

CERTICAN is indicated for:

• Prevention of Organ Rejection:
  • Used in kidney, liver, and heart transplant recipients to prevent organ rejection.
• Treatment of Certain Cancers:
  • Approved for certain types of cancer, such as advanced kidney cancer, breast cancer, and neuroendocrine tumors.
• Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC):
  • Used for treatment of TSC-related brain and kidney tumors.

Contraindications

CERTICAN should not be used in:

• Hypersensitivity to Everolimus or its Components:
  • Patients with known allergies to everolimus or any other ingredients in CERTICAN.
• Severe Liver Impairment:
  • Not recommended for patients with severe liver dysfunction due to altered drug metabolism.
• Pregnancy:
  • CERTICAN may cause harm to the fetus and should not be used during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary.
• Breastfeeding:
  • Not recommended as the drug may pass into breast milk and affect the infant.
• Uncontrolled Infections:
  • Patients with active, severe infections should not use CERTICAN due to the increased risk of worsening the infection.

Price in Different Countries

The price of CERTICAN 0.25 mg Tablets can vary significantly depending on the country, healthcare system, and availability. Below is a table showing approximate prices in different countries.

Country	Price (Per Pack of 60 Tablets)	Reference
United States	$1,200 – $1,500	GoodRx
United Kingdom	£800 – £1,000	NHS UK
Canada	CAD $1,000 – $1,300	Canada Health
Australia	AUD $1,100 – $1,400	PBS Australia
India	₹85,000 – ₹95,000	1mg

Top 5 Global Brands

1. CERTICAN (Everolimus) – Novartis:
   • The original and widely recognized brand for immunosuppressive and oncological uses.
2. Zortress (Everolimus) – Novartis:
   • Used primarily in the U.S. under a different brand name for similar indications.
3. Afinitor (Everolimus) – Novartis:
   • A brand of everolimus used primarily in cancer treatments with similar effects.
4. Torisel (Temsirolimus) – Pfizer:
   • A related mTOR inhibitor with comparable applications in cancer therapy.
5. Rapamune (Sirolimus) – Pfizer:
   • Another mTOR inhibitor often used alongside everolimus in transplant settings.