Sirolimus (Monograph)
Brand name: Rapamune
Drug class: Immunosuppressive Agents
ATC class: L04AA10
VA class: IM600
Warning
- Immunosuppression
-
Immunosuppression may result in increased susceptibility to infection and possible development of lymphoma or other malignancies.1
-
Only clinicians experienced in immunosuppressive therapy and management of renal transplant patients should prescribe sirolimus for prophylaxis of organ rejection in patients receiving renal transplants.1
-
Patients should be managed in facilities equipped and staffed with adequate laboratory and supportive medical resources; the clinician responsible for maintenance therapy should have complete information for patient follow-up.1
- Use Not Recommended in Liver or Lung Transplant Patients
-
Safety and efficacy of sirolimus as immunosuppressive therapy not established in liver or lung transplant patients; such use is not recommended.1
-
Use of sirolimus in combination with tacrolimus associated with excess mortality and graft loss in de novo liver transplant recipients; concurrent use of sirolimus with cyclosporine or tacrolimus associated with an increased risk of hepatic artery thrombosis.1
-
Cases of bronchial anastomotic dehiscence, most fatal, reported in de novo lung transplant patients when sirolimus was used as part of an immunosuppressive regimen.1
Introduction
Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor; immunosuppressive agent.1 2 6 9 10
Uses for Sirolimus
Renal Allotransplantation
Prevention of renal allograft rejection in patients ≥13 years of age.1 2 The manufacturer recommends therapeutic drug monitoring in all patients receiving the drug.1
In patients at low to moderate immunologic risk, it is recommended that sirolimus be used initially with both cyclosporine and corticosteroids; cyclosporine should be withdrawn 2–4 months after transplantation.1
In patients at high immunologic risk (defined as Black recipients and/or repeat renal transplant recipients who lost a previous allograft for immunologic reasons and/or patients with high panel-reactive antibodies), it is recommended that sirolimus be used in combination with cyclosporine and corticosteroids for the first year following transplantation.1
Safety and efficacy not established in patients <13 years old, or in pediatric renal transplant patients considered at high immunologic risk.1
Safety and efficacy of de novo use of sirolimus without cyclosporine not established.1
Safety and efficacy of conversion from calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., cyclosporine, tacrolimus) to sirolimus in maintenance renal transplant patients not established.1
KDIGO clinical practice guideline states that immunosuppressive medication recommendations are complex as combinations of multiple drug classes are utilized and choices between varying regimens are determined through an evaluation of benefits and harms.505
KDIGO recommends that if mTOR inhibitors including sirolimus are used, these agents should not be initiated until graft function is established and surgical wounds are healed.505
The KDIGO guideline also states that mTOR inhibitors do not improve patient outcomes when administered either as replacement agents for calcineurin inhibitors or antiproliferative agents, or as add-on therapy, and possess significant acute and chronic adverse effects (e.g., dyslipidemia, bone marrow suppression).505
Consensus recommendations from the ACCP, AST, and the ISHLT state there is no standardized approach to maintenance immunosuppression management in solid organ transplantation and a variety of factors may impact the choice of agents including the transplanted organ, center-specific protocols, provider expertise, insurance and cost issues, and patient characteristics and tolerability of therapy.506
The consensus recommendations also state that mTOR inhibitors are not commonly utilized as first line maintenance immunosuppression but rather as second-line therapy in place of or in combination with other first line agents for various indications.506
Lymphangioleiomyomatosis
Treatment of lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM).1 38
The American Thoracic Society and Japanese Respiratory Society clinical practice guideline for the diagnosis and management of LAM strongly recommends treatment with sirolimus rather than observation for patients with LAM with abnormal/declining lung function.507
The guideline also conditionally recommends treatment with sirolimus for selected patients with LAM with problematic chylous effusions prior to invasive management.507
Hepatic Transplantation
Prevention of rejection of liver allografts† [off-label].506 508 509 510 511
The manufacturer states that safety and efficacy as immunosuppressive therapy have not been established in liver transplant patients and that such use is therefore not recommended.1
Associated with adverse outcomes in patients following liver transplantation, including excess mortality, graft loss, and hepatic artery thrombosis when used in combination with other immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine, tacrolimus).1 25 36
Lung Transplantation
Prevention of rejection of lung allografts† [off-label].512 513 514 515
The manufacturer states that safety and efficacy as immunosuppressive therapy have not been established in lung transplant patients and that such use is therefore not recommended.1
Cases of bronchial anastomotic dehiscence, mostly fatal, reported in de novo lung transplant patients who received sirolimus in combination with other immunosuppressants.1
Heart Transplantation
Prevention of rejection of heart allografts† [off-label].516 517 518 519 520 May offer benefit in heart transplant patients with reduced or withdrawn calcineurin inhibitor therapy by stabilizing or modestly improving renal function and by decreasing the incidence and/or reducing progression of chronic allograft vasculopathy.506
Pancreas Transplantation
Prevention of rejection of pancreas allografts† [off-label] (often performed simultaneously with a kidney transplant).521 522 523 524 The 2022 ACCP, AST, and ISHLT consensus recommendations for use of maintenance immunosuppression in solid organ transplantation state that replacing a calcineurin inhibitor with an mTOR inhibitor and mycophenolic acid with or without corticosteroids in pancreas transplant patients can result in improvement of calcineurin-associated renal toxicity with minimal impact on allograft and patient survival.506
Intestinal Transplantation
Prevention of rejection of intestinal allografts† [off-label].506 525 526 527 Associated with a beneficial impact on graft rejection or dysfunction in some studies.506 525 526 527
Other Uses
Prevent rejection of vascular composite allografts.1
Sirolimus Dosage and Administration
General
Patient Monitoring
-
Monitoring of sirolimus trough concentrations is recommended for all patients, and should be used to adjust sirolimus therapy in conjunction with clinical and laboratory parameters.1 2
-
Examine patients for skin changes periodically.1
-
Monitor for signs and symptoms of infection; including reactivation of latent viral infections.1
-
Perform routine laboratory testing for assessment of renal function and monitoring of lipids and urinary proteins).1
Administration
Oral Administration
Administer orally once daily.1 Give consistently with or without food to minimize variability of systemic exposure.1 9
Do not crush, chew, or split tablets; use oral solution in patients unable to take tablets.1
Although commercially available tablets and oral solution are not bioequivalent,1 manufacturer states that 2 mg doses given as conventional tablets and as oral solution are therapeutically equivalent and may be interchangeable on a mg-per-mg basis at doses ≤2 mg.1 Not known whether these formulations are therapeutically equivalent at doses >2 mg.1
Administer sirolimus 4 hours after administration of cyclosporine formulations for emulsion (modified), since concomitant administration increases rate and extent of sirolimus absorption.1 2
Dilution and Administration of Oral Solution
Consult manufacturer’s instructions regarding insertion of adapter assembly into bottle and withdrawal of prescribed dose (using syringe provided by manufacturer).1
Empty contents of syringe into a glass or plastic cup containing ≥60 mL of water or orange juice; stir vigorously for 1 minute and administer immediately.1 Refill container with ≥120 mL of the diluent, stir vigorously, and ingest rinse solution.1 Use only glass or plastic containers.1 Do not administer with grapefruit juice or use grapefruit juice as diluent (see Interactions);1 do not use apple juice or other liquids as diluents.1 Use syringe once and then discard.1
If mouth of bottle must be wiped clean, use dry cloth to avoid introducing water or other liquid into the bottle.1
Dosage
When used for the prevention of renal allograft rejection, frequent sirolimus dosage adjustments based on non-steady-state sirolimus concentrations can lead to overdosing or underdosing since sirolimus has a long half-life.1 Once maintenance dosage is adjusted, maintain patient on the new dosage for at least 7–14 days before making subsequent dosage adjustment based on drug concentrations.1
In most patients, dose adjustments can be estimated based on the following equation:
New sirolimus dose = current sirolimus dose × (target concentration / current concentration)
A loading dose should be considered in addition to a new maintenance dose when it is necessary to increase trough sirolimus concentrations.1 Estimate the loading dose based on the following equation:1
Sirolimus loading dose = 3 × (new maintenance dose - current maintenance dose)
Do not give >40 mg of sirolimus within any 1-day period.1 If an estimated daily dose is >40 mg because of the addition of a loading dose, give loading dose over a 2-day period.1 The manufacturer recommends monitoring trough whole blood concentrations of sirolimus at least 3–4 days after administering loading dose(s).1
Pediatric Patients
Renal Allotransplantation
Concomitant Sirolimus and Cyclosporine Therapy in Patients at Low to Moderate Immunologic Risk
OralChildren ≥13 years of age who weigh ≥40 kg: Loading dose should be equivalent to 3 times the maintenance dosage; e.g., 6 mg as a loading dose in de novo renal transplant recipients and a maintenance dosage of 2 mg daily.1 No efficacy advantage with higher loading and maintenance dosages (loading dose of 15 mg followed by a maintenance dosage of 5 mg daily) in overall patient population.1 14 2-mg daily maintenance dosage associated with a superior safety profile compared with the 5-mg daily dosage.1
Children ≥13 years of age who weigh <40 kg: Initially, 3 mg/m2 as a loading dose in de novo renal transplant recipients.1 Maintenance dosage of 1 mg/m2 daily.1
Therapeutic drug monitoring recommended in all patients to maintain sirolimus blood concentrations within the recommended range.1 2 9
Sirolimus Therapy following Cyclosporine Withdrawal in Patients at Low to Moderate Immunologic Risk
OralChildren ≥13 years of age: As cyclosporine is gradually discontinued over a 4- to 8-week period, increase sirolimus dosage to maintain target trough whole blood concentrations of 16–24 ng/mL for the first year post-transplantation.1 Thereafter, target sirolimus concentrations should be 12–20 ng/mL.1
Patients at High Immunologic Risk
OralChildren ≥13 years of age who weigh ≥40 kg receiving concomitant sirolimus and cyclosporine therapy: Loading dose of ≤15 mg on day 1 post-transplantation.1 On day 2, initial maintenance dosage of 5 mg daily.1 Obtain trough sirolimus concentration between days 5 and 7; adjust maintenance dosage as necessary.1
Initially, cyclosporine dosage of up to 7 mg/kg daily given in divided doses.1 Subsequently, adjust dosage to achieve target trough blood concentrations.1 Minimum prednisone dosage of 5 mg daily.1
May use antibody induction therapy.1
Adults
Renal Allotransplantation
Concomitant Sirolimus and Cyclosporine Therapy in Patients at Low to Moderate Immunologic Risk
OralAdults who weigh ≥40 kg: Loading dose should be equivalent to 3 times the maintenance dosage; e.g., 6 mg as a loading dose in de novo renal transplant recipients and a maintenance dosage of 2 mg daily.1 No efficacy advantage with higher loading and maintenance dosages (loading dose of 15 mg followed by a maintenance dosage of 5 mg daily) in overall patient population.1 14 2-mg daily maintenance dosage associated with a superior safety profile compared with the 5-mg daily dosage.1
Adults who weigh <40 kg: Initially, 3 mg/m2 as a loading dose in de novo renal transplant recipients.1 Maintenance dosage of 1 mg/m2 daily.1
Therapeutic drug monitoring recommended in all patients to maintain sirolimus blood concentrations within the recommended range.1 2 9
Sirolimus Therapy following Cyclosporine Withdrawal in Patients at Low to Moderate Immunologic Risk
OralAs cyclosporine is gradually discontinued over a 4- to 8-week period, increase sirolimus dosage to maintain target trough whole blood concentrations of 16–24 ng/mL for the first year post transplantation.1 Thereafter, target sirolimus concentrations should be 12–20 ng/mL.1
Patients at High Immunologic Risk
OralAdults who weigh ≥40 kg receiving concomitant sirolimus and cyclosporine therapy: Loading dose of ≤15 mg on day 1 post-transplantation.1 On day 2, initial maintenance dosage of 5 mg daily.1 Obtain trough sirolimus concentration between days 5 and 7; adjust maintenance dosage as necessary.1
Initially, cyclosporine dosage of up to 7 mg/kg daily given in divided doses.1 Subsequently, adjust dosage to achieve target trough blood concentrations.1 Minimum prednisone dosage of 5 mg daily.1
May use antibody induction therapy.1
Lymphangioleiomyomatosis
OralInitially, 2 mg daily.1 Obtain whole blood trough concentrations in 10–20 days; adjust dosage to maintain concentrations between 5–15 ng/mL.1 If subsequent dosage adjustment is required, the manufacturer states that the new dose can be estimated based on the following equation:1
new sirolimus dose = current sirolimus dose × (target concentration ÷ current concentration)
The manufacturer cautions that frequent sirolimus dosage adjustments based on non-steady-state sirolimus concentrations can lead to overdosing or underdosing since sirolimus has a long half-life.1 Once the maintenance dosage is adjusted, maintain the patient on the new sirolimus dosage for at least 7–14 days before subsequent dosage adjustment is made based on drug concentrations.1 Once a stable dose is achieved, perform therapeutic drug monitoring at least every 3 months.1
Special Populations
Hepatic Impairment
Reduce maintenance dosage by approximately one-third in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment and by approximately one-half in patients with severe hepatic impairment; loading dose does not require modification.1
Renal Impairment
Dosage adjustment is not necessary.1
Low Body Weight
The initial dosage of sirolimus for the prevention of renal allograft rejection in patients ≥13 years of age who weigh <40 kg should be 1 mg/m2 daily based on body surface area, with a loading dose of 3 mg/m2
Geriatric Patients
Routine dosage adjustment based solely on advanced age does not appear to be necessary.1 However, manufacturer recommends cautious dosage selection, usually starting at lower end of dosage range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic or cardiac function and of concomitant diseases or other drug therapy in this population.1
Cautions for Sirolimus
Contraindications
-
Known hypersensitivity to sirolimus or its derivatives or any ingredient in the sirolimus formulation.1
Warnings/Precautions
Warnings
Increased Susceptibility to Infection and Possible Development of Lymphoma
Possible increased susceptibility to infection (including opportunistic infections [e.g., tuberculosis], fatal infections, and sepsis) and possible development of lymphoma or other malignancies, particularly of the skin.1 (See Boxed Warning.)
Excess Mortality, Graft Loss, and Hepatic Artery Thrombosis in Liver Transplant Patients
Use in combination with other immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine, tacrolimus) associated with increased risk of hepatic artery thrombosis, graft loss, and death in de novo liver transplant recipients.1 25 36 (See Boxed Warning.)
Safety and efficacy of sirolimus as immunosuppressive therapy in liver transplant patients not established; such use is not recommended by manufacturer.1
Bronchial Anastomotic Dehiscence in Lung Transplant Patients
Cases of bronchial anastomotic dehiscence, mostly fatal, reported in de novo lung transplant patients who received sirolimus in combination with other immunosuppressants.1 Safety and efficacy of sirolimus as immunosuppressive therapy in lung transplant patients not established; such use is not recommended by manufacturer.1 (See Boxed Warning.)
Other Warnings/Precautions
Hypersensitivity Reactions
Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylactic or anaphylactoid reactions, angioedema, exfoliative dermatitis, and hypersensitivity vasculitis, reported.1
Angioedema
Associated with angioedema.1 493 494 495 Concurrent use of other drugs causing angioedema (e.g., ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor antagonists, NSAIAs) may increase risk of developing angioedema.1 494
Fluid Accumulation and Impairment of Wound Healing
Impaired or delayed wound healing, including lymphocele and wound dehiscence, reported.1 24 28 Lymphocele, a known surgical complication of renal transplantation, occurred more often in sirolimus-treated patients and appeared to be dose-related.1 2 6 24 28 Abnormal wound healing following transplant surgery, including fascial dehiscence, incisional hernia, and anastomotic disruption (e.g., wound, vascular, airway, ureteral, biliary), also reported.1 24
Consider appropriate measures to minimize such complications (i.e., patient selection based on BMI, reduced sirolimus dosage, use of closed suction drains, modifications of surgical technique).1 24 28 Patients with a BMI >30 kg/m2 may be at increased risk of abnormal wound healing.1 24 28
Fluid accumulation, including peripheral edema, lymphedema, pleural effusion, ascites, and pericardial effusions (including hemodynamically important effusions and tamponade requiring intervention in children and adults), reported.1 29 32
Hyperlipidemia
Increases in serum cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations requiring treatment reported.1 2 3 5 12
Monitor serum lipids; initiate appropriate treatment (diet, exercise, lipid-lowering agents, as indicated) if hyperlipidemia occurs.1
Carefully consider risks/benefits of sirolimus in patients with preexisting hyperlipidemia.1
In clinical trials, concomitant use of sirolimus and HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors and/or fibric acid derivatives generally was well tolerated.1 31 However, manufacturer recommends monitoring patients receiving sirolimus and cyclosporine therapy who are concurrently receiving an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor and/or fibric acid derivative for possible development of rhabdomyolysis and other possible adverse effects (e.g., hepatic toxicity) described in the prescribing information for these antilipemic agents.1 31
Decline in Renal Function
Increases in Scr and decreases in GFR reported in patients receiving cyclosporine and sirolimus concurrently compared with those receiving cyclosporine with placebo or azathioprine.1 2
Monitor renal function closely in patients receiving maintenance immunosuppressive regimens that include sirolimus and cyclosporine.1 Consider appropriate adjustments of the immunosuppressive regimen, including discontinuance of sirolimus and/or cyclosporine, in patients with elevated or increasing Scr.1
In patients with low to moderate immunologic risk, consider administering sirolimus in combination with cyclosporine for >4 months post-transplantation only if potential benefits outweigh possible risks.1
Use other nephrotoxic drugs with caution.1 (See Interactions.)
In patients with delayed graft function, sirolimus may delay recovery of renal function.1
Proteinuria
Increased urinary protein excretion commonly observed following conversion from calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., cyclosporine, tacrolimus) to sirolimus in maintenance renal transplant recipients.1 37 Safety and efficacy of such conversion not established.1
Manufacturer recommends periodic quantitative monitoring of urinary protein excretion in sirolimus-treated patients.1 If proteinuria occurs, early treatment may help prevent long-term adverse effects on graft survival.37
Latent Viral Infections
Increased risk of reactivation of latent viral infections in immunosuppressed patients, including those receiving sirolimus.1 484 485 486 487 488 489 490 491 492 (See BK Virus-associated Nephropathy [BKVN] and also Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy [PML] under Cautions.)
BK Virus-associated Nephropathy (BKVN)
BKVN observed in immunosuppressed renal transplant patients, including those receiving sirolimus.1 484 485 486 487 488 489 490 491 492 Principally observed in renal transplant patients (usually within the first year post-transplantation); may result in severe allograft dysfunction and/or graft loss.1 484 485 486 487 488 489 490 491 492 Risk appears to correlate with degree of overall immunosuppression rather than use of specific immunosuppressant.485 486 487 488 489 490 491 492
Monitor patients for signs of BKVN (e.g., deterioration of renal function);1 484 485 486 488 if BKVN develops, institute early treatment and consider initially reducing immunosuppressive therapy.1 484 485 486 487 488 490 491 492 Treatment approaches used anecdotally include antiviral therapy (e.g., cidofovir), leflunomide, IV immunoglobulins, and fluoroquinolone antibiotics; additional experience and well-controlled studies needed to establish optimal treatment.485 486 487 491 492
Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML)
PML, an opportunistic viral infection of the brain caused by the polyomavirus JC (also called the JC virus), reported in patients receiving immunosuppressants, including sirolimus.1 498 499 500 501 502 503 Risk factors include immunosuppressive therapies and impairment of immune function.1 498 499 500 501 502 503 504
Commonly presents with hemiparesis, apathy, confusion, cognitive impairment, and ataxia;1 498 503 consider possible diagnosis of PML in any immunocompromised patient experiencing neurologic manifestations.1 498 499 500 501 502 Consider consulting with a neurologist as clinically indicated.1
Decreasing total immunosuppression may improve outcome, but may also increase risk of graft rejection in transplant recipients;1 498 503 consider the potential risks versus benefits of reduced immunosuppression in such cases.1 498 Although optimal treatment not established, antiviral agents (e.g., cidofovir) have been successfully used in the treatment of PML in several transplant recipients.498 503 Early diagnosis and rapid initiation of treatment appear essential for patient recovery.498 503
Interstitial Lung Disease/Non-Infectious Pneumonitis
Cases of ILD (including pneumonitis, bronchiolitis obliterans organizing pneumonia [BOOP], and pulmonary fibrosis), some fatal, with no identified infectious etiology reported.1 27 In some cases, the ILD was reported with pulmonary hypertension (including pulmonary arterial hypertension [PAH]) as a secondary event.1 Risk may increase as trough sirolimus concentration increases.1 In some cases, ILD resolved upon sirolimus discontinuance or dosage reduction.1 27
De Novo Use Without Cyclosporine
Safety and efficacy of de novo use without cyclosporine not established in renal transplant patients.1
Increased Risk of Calcineurin Inhibitor-induced HUS/TTP/TMA
Concomitant use with a calcineurin inhibitor (e.g., cyclosporine, tacrolimus) may increase risk of hemolytic uremic syndrome/thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura/thrombotic microangiopathy (HUS/TTP/TMA).1
Antimicrobial Prophylaxis
Cases of Pneumocystis jiroveci (formerly Pneumocystis carinii) pneumonia reported in sirolimus-treated patients not receiving antimicrobial prophylaxis.1 Manufacturer recommends antimicrobial prophylaxis for P. jiroveci pneumonia for 1 year following transplantation.1
Manufacturer recommends cytomegalovirus (CMV) prophylaxis for 3 months after transplantation, particularly in patients at increased risk for CMV disease.1
Different Sirolimus Trough Concentration Reported between Chromatographic and Immunoassay Methodologies
Various chromatographic and immunoassay methodologies used in clinical practice to measure sirolimus whole blood concentrations.1 496 497 Patient sample values from different assays may not be interchangeable.1 496 497
Skin Cancer
Increased risk for skin cancer with immunosuppressive therapy.1 Limit exposure to sunlight and other UV light; use of protective clothing, sunglasses, and broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high protection factor is recommended.1
Immunizations
Avoid use of live vaccines during treatment with sirolimus including measles, mumps, rubella, oral polio, BCG, yellow fever, varicella, and TY21a typhoid.1 Immunosuppressants may affect response to vaccination; therefore, vaccination may be less effective during treatment with sirolimus.1
Interaction with Potent Inhibitors and Inducers of CYP3A4 and/or P-glycoprotein
Avoid concurrent administration of sirolimus with potent inhibitors of CYP3A4 and/or P-glycoprotein (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole, clarithromycin, erythromycin,) or potent inducers of CYP3A4 and/or P-glycoprotein (e.g., rifampin, rifabutin).1
Cannabidiol Drug Interactions
Closely monitor for an increase in sirolimus blood levels and for adverse reactions suggestive of sirolimus toxicity when cannabidiol and sirolimus are co-administered,.1 Consider a dose reduction of sirolimus as needed when coadministered with cannabidiol.1
Specific Populations
Pregnancy
Potential for fetal harm based on animal studies and the drug's mechanism of action.1 Animal studies showed that the drug was embryotoxic and fetotoxic at subtherapeutic doses.1 Advise pregnant females of the potential risk to a fetus.1 (See Females and Males of Reproductive Potential under Cautions.)
The National Transplantation Pregnancy Registry (NTPR) is a pregnancy registry for pregnant women receiving immunosuppressants following any solid organ transplantation; the NTPR encourages reporting of all immunosuppressant exposures during pregnancy in transplant patients by telephone at 877-955-6877 or via their website: [Web].26
Lactation
Distributed into milk in rats; not known whether distributed into human milk.1 Not known whether the drug has any effects on the breastfed child or on milk production.1 Consider known benefits of breastfeeding along with mother's need for the drug and potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant.1
Females and Males of Reproductive Potential
Potential for fetal harm if administered to pregnant females.1 Advise females of reproductive potential to use highly effective contraception prior to initiation, during, and for 12 weeks after completion of sirolimus treatment.1
Based on findings in animals, male and female fertility may be compromised by treatment with sirolimus.1
Pediatric Use
Safety and efficacy not established in children <13 years of age for prophylaxis of organ rejection in renal transplantation.1
Safety and efficacy established in pediatric and adolescent renal transplant patients ≥13 years of age at low to moderate immunologic risk.1
Safety and efficacy data in pediatric and adolescent renal transplant patients <18 years of age at high immunologic risk (i.e., history of ≥1 acute rejection episodes and/or presence of chronic allograft nephropathy) did not support chronic use because of higher incidence of lipid abnormalities and deterioration of renal function and lack of demonstrated therapeutic benefit compared with a calcineurin inhibitor-based regimen.1
Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients <18 years of age not established for the treatment of lymphangioleiomyomatosis.1
Geriatric Use
Studies did not include sufficient numbers of patients >65 years of age to determine whether geriatric patients respond differently than younger patients.1 Differences in responses between geriatric patients and younger patients not identified.1
Hepatic Impairment
Prolonged elimination; adjustment of the maintenance dosage and therapeutic drug monitoring recommended in all patients with hepatic impairment.1
Safety and efficacy of sirolimus as immunosuppressive therapy in liver transplant patients not established; such use notrecommended.1
Common Adverse Effects
Renal transplantation (≥30%): peripheral edema,1 hypercholesterolemia,1 2 6 hypertriglyceridemia,1 2 5 6 12 14 hypertension,1 2 increased serum creatinine concentrations,1 constipation,1 abdominal pain,1 diarrhea,1 2 6 headache,1 fever,1 urinary tract infection,1 anemia,1 5 nausea,1 arthralgia,1 2 5 pain,1 and thrombocytopenia.1 2 4 5 6 9
Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (≥20%): stomatitis,1 diarrhea,1 abdominal pain,1 nausea,1 nasopharyngitis,1 acne,1 chest pain,1 peripheral edema,1 upper respiratory tract infection,1 headache,1 dizziness,1 myalgia,1 and hypercholesterolemia.1
Drug Interactions
Metabolized by CYP3A4;1 also a substrate for P-glycoprotein.1
Drugs Affecting Hepatic Microsomal Enzymes
CYP3A4 inhibitors: Potential pharmacokinetic interaction (increased blood concentrations of sirolimus).1
CYP3A4 inducers: Potential pharmacokinetic interaction (decreased blood concentrations of sirolimus).1
Nephrotoxic Drugs
Possible increased risk of nephrotoxicity with concurrent use of nephrotoxic drugs (e.g., aminoglycosides, amphotericin B); use with caution.1
Specific Drugs and Foods
Drug or Food |
Interaction |
Comments |
---|---|---|
Acyclovir |
Pharmacokinetic interaction unlikely1 |
|
Anticonvulsants (carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin) |
Decreased blood sirolimus concentrations1 |
Use with caution1 |
Antifungals, azoles (fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole) |
Use fluconazole with caution; adjust dosage of sirolimus and/or fluconazole if necessary1 Use of itraconazole, ketoconazole, and voriconazole not recommended; consider alternative antifungal therapy with less interaction potential 1 |
|
Antilipemic agents |
Concurrent use of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors and/or fibric acid derivatives appears to be well tolerated1 31 Clinically important pharmacokinetic interaction with atorvastatin unlikely1 |
Monitor for rhabdomyolysis and other adverse effects (e.g., hepatic toxicity) associated with antilipemic therapy1 |
Bromocriptine |
Possible increased blood sirolimus concentrations1 |
Use with caution1 |
Calcium-channel blocking agents (diltiazem, nicardipine, nifedipine, verapamil) |
Diltiazem: Increased bioavailability of sirolimus1 9 Nicardipine: Increased blood sirolimus concentrations1 Nifedipine: Pharmacokinetic interaction unlikely1 Verapamil: Increased bioavailability of sirolimus and verapamil1 20 |
Use with caution; adjust dosage of sirolimus and/or calcium-channel blocking agent as necessary1 Sirolimus dosage adjustment not required with concomitant use of nicardipine1 |
Cannabidiol |
Increase in sirolimus blood levels and adverse reactions suggestive of sirolimus toxicity1 |
Use with caution; adjust dosage of sirolimus as necessary1 |
Cimetidine |
Increased blood sirolimus concentrations1 |
Use with caution1 |
Cisapride |
Increased blood sirolimus concentrations1 |
Use with caution1 |
Clotrimazole |
Increased blood sirolimus concentrations1 |
Use with caution1 |
Contraceptives, oral |
Pharmacokinetic interaction unlikely1 |
|
Co-trimoxazole |
Pharmacokinetic interaction unlikely1 |
|
Cyclosporine |
Increased blood concentrations of sirolimus and cyclosporine1 Possible increased risk of calcineurin inhibitor-induced hemolytic uremic syndrome/thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura/thrombotic microangiopathy1 |
Administer sirolimus 4 hours after modified cyclosporine oral solution or capsules1 |
Danazol |
Increased blood sirolimus concentrations1 |
Use with caution1 |
Digoxin |
Pharmacokinetic interaction unlikely1 |
|
Dronedarone |
Manufacturer of dronedarone recommends monitoring sirolimus concentrations; adjust dosage if necessary34 Some clinicians suggest avoiding combined therapy; if cannot be avoided, they recommend reducing sirolimus dosage by 50–75% prior to initiating dronedarone and closely monitoring sirolimus concentrations, particularly during the titration phase33 |
|
Glyburide |
Hypoglycemic effect of glyburide not affected1 Clinically important pharmacokinetic interaction unlikely1 |
|
Grapefruit juice |
Increased bioavailability of sirolimus1 |
Avoid concomitant administration, do not use as diluent1 |
HIV protease inhibitors (e.g., indinavir, ritonavir) |
Increased blood sirolimus concentrations1 |
Use with caution1 |
Letermovir |
Increased blood sirolimus concentrations1 |
Use with caution1 |
Macrolide antibiotics (clarithromycin, erythromycin, troleandomycin) |
Increased blood sirolimus concentrations1 |
Concurrent use of clarithromycin or erythromycin and sirolimus not recommended; consider alternative anti-infective therapy with less interaction potential1 Use troleandomycin with caution; adjust dosage of sirolimus if necessary1 |
Metoclopramide |
Use with caution1 |
|
Prednisolone |
Pharmacokinetic interaction unlikely1 |
|
Rifabutin |
Decreased blood sirolimus concentrations1 |
Avoid concomitant use; consider alternative anti-infective therapy with less interaction potential1 |
Rifampin |
Avoid concomitant use; consider alternative anti-infective therapy with less interaction potential1 |
|
Rifapentine |
Possible decreased blood sirolimus concentrations1 |
Use with caution; adjust dosage of sirolimus and/or rifapentine if necessary1 |
St. John’s wort |
Possible decreased sirolimus concentrations1 |
|
Tacrolimus |
Possible decreased exposure to tacrolimus35 Increased risk of hepatic artery thrombosis, graft loss, and death in de novo liver transplant recipients1 36 Possible increased risk of calcineurin inhibitor-induced hemolytic uremic syndrome/thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura/thrombotic microangiopathy1 Increased risk of wound healing complications, impaired renal function, and insulin-dependent post-transplant diabetes mellitus in heart transplant recipients35 |
Concomitant use not recommended35 |
Vaccines |
Possible decreased response to vaccination1 |
Avoid use of live vaccines1 |
Sirolimus Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
Bioavailability
Rapidly but poorly absorbed from the GI tract.1 2 Following oral administration as solution, peak blood concentrations occur in approximately 1 hour in healthy individuals and in about 2 hours in renal transplant recipients.1 2 Systemic availability of oral solution is about 14%.1
Sirolimus tablets are not bioequivalent to the oral solution; bioavailability of tablet is about 27% higher relative to the solution.1
Food
Administration of sirolimus (as oral solution or tablets) with high-fat meal increases mean total exposure by 23–35% compared with fasting; effect of food on peak blood concentration was inconsistent depending on the dosage form evaluated.1
Special Populations
In renal transplant patients >65 years of age, sirolimus trough concentrations were similar to those observed in adults 18–65 years of age.1
Distribution
Extent
Extensively partitioned into formed blood elements (mean blood-to-plasma ratio of sirolimus is 36 in stable renal allograft recipients).1 2
Distributed into milk in animals; not known whether sirolimus distributes into human milk or crosses the placenta.1
Plasma Protein Binding
Approximately 92% (mainly albumin [97%]; also α1-acid glycoprotein and lipoproteins).1
Elimination
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the intestinal wall and liver by CYP3A4; also a substrate for P-glycoprotein; 7 major metabolites.1
Present in human whole blood principally as sirolimus; sirolimus contributes >90% of the immunosuppressive activity.1
Elimination Route
Excreted mainly in feces (91%).1
Half-life
Terminal elimination half-life: About 62 hours in stable renal transplant patients.1 2
Special Populations
In patients with mild, moderate, and severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class A, B, and C), AUC is increased by 43, 94, and 189%, respectively; as severity of hepatic impairment increased, steady increases in mean sirolimus elimination half-lives and decreases in mean sirolimus clearance normalized for body weight observed.1
Stability
Storage
Oral
Tablets
Tight, light-resistant container at 20–25°C.1
Solution
2–8°C for solution in bottles; protect from light.1 Discard bottle 1 month after opening.1 May store solution at room temperature (≤25°C) for up to 15 days.1 May store solution in the amber syringe provided by manufacturer for up to 24 hours at 2–8°C or room temperature (≤25°C).1 Use immediately after dilution.1
If slight haze develops when solution in bottles is refrigerated, allow to stand at room temperature and shake gently until haze disappears.1
Actions
-
Mechanism of action appears to be distinct from that of other immunosuppressants (e.g., tacrolimus, cyclosporine).1 3 4 5 6 9 10 11 Sirolimus inhibits activation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR);3 7 9 unlike tacrolimus and cyclosporine, sirolimus does not block calcineurin pathway.1 2 5 11
-
Inhibits T lymphocyte activation and proliferation that occurs in response to antigenic and cytokine (e.g., interleukin-2, interleukin-4, interleukin-15) stimulation.1 2 3 4 5 9 Also inhibits interleukin-2-dependent and independent proliferation of B-lymphocytes and the production of antibodies (e.g., immunoglobulins A, M, and G).1 2 7
-
Potent mTOR inhibitor immunosuppressive agent.1 2 4 7 9 10 In animal models, about 27 times as potent as tacrolimus.9
-
Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a progressive, cystic lung disease in women associated with inappropriate activation of mTOR signaling, which regulates cellular growth and lymphangiogenesis.38 Sirolimus inhibits the activated mTOR pathway and thus the proliferation of LAM cells.1
Advice to Patients
-
Advise patients, their families, and their caregivers to read the manufacturer's medication guide and instructions for use.1
-
Inform patients that sirolimus may increase risk of skin cancer.1 Advise patients to limit exposure to sunlight or other UV light by wearing protective clothing and sunglasses and using broad spectrum sunscreen with a high protection factor.1
-
Advise females of childbearing age of the potential fetal risks and instruct such women to use highly effective contraception prior to initiation of sirolimus therapy, during therapy, and for 12 weeks after discontinuance of therapy.1
-
Importance of females informing their clinician if they are breast-feeding or plan to breast-feed.1 Effects of breast-feeding during treatment with sirolimus are unknown, but there is potential for serious adverse effects.1
-
Advise patients that sirolimus may impair fertility in males and females.1
-
Advise patients to inform their clinicians of existing or contemplated concomitant therapy, including prescription and OTC drugs and dietary or herbal supplements.
-
Inform patients of other important precautionary information.1 (See Cautions.)
Additional Information
The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. represents that the information provided in the accompanying monograph was formulated with a reasonable standard of care, and in conformity with professional standards in the field. Readers are advised that decisions regarding use of drugs are complex medical decisions requiring the independent, informed decision of an appropriate health care professional, and that the information contained in the monograph is provided for informational purposes only. The manufacturer’s labeling should be consulted for more detailed information. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. does not endorse or recommend the use of any drug. The information contained in the monograph is not a substitute for medical care.
Preparations
Excipients in commercially available drug preparations may have clinically important effects in some individuals; consult specific product labeling for details.
Please refer to the ASHP Drug Shortages Resource Center for information on shortages of one or more of these preparations.
* available from one or more manufacturer, distributor, and/or repackager by generic (nonproprietary) name
Routes |
Dosage Forms |
Strengths |
Brand Names |
Manufacturer |
---|---|---|---|---|
Oral |
Solution |
1 mg/mL* |
Rapamune |
Wyeth |
Sirolimus Oral Solution |
||||
Tablets |
0.5 mg* |
Rapamune |
Wyeth |
|
Sirolimus Tablets |
||||
1 mg* |
Rapamune |
Wyeth |
||
Sirolimus Tablets |
||||
2 mg* |
Rapamune |
Wyeth |
||
Sirolimus Tablets |
AHFS DI Essentials™. © Copyright 2024, Selected Revisions February 10, 2024. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 4500 East-West Highway, Suite 900, Bethesda, Maryland 20814.
† Off-label: Use is not currently included in the labeling approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.
References
1. Wyeth Laboratories. Rapamune (sirolimus) oral solution and tablets prescribing information. Philadelphia, PA; 2022 Aug.
2. Vasquez EM. Sirolimus: a new agent for prevention of renal allograft rejection. Am J Health-Syst Pharm. 2000; 57:437-51. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10711524?dopt=AbstractPlus
3. Denton MD, Magee CC, Sayegh MH. Immunosuppressive strategies in transplantation. Lancet. 1999; 353:1083-91. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10199367?dopt=AbstractPlus
4. Watson CJE, Friend PJ, Jamieson NV et al. Sirolimus: a potent new immunosuppressant for liver transplantation. Transplantation. 1999; 67:505-9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10071017?dopt=AbstractPlus
5. Groth CG, Bäckman L, Morales JM et al. Sirolimus (rapamycin)-based therapy in human renal transplantation. Transplantation. 1999; 67:1036-42. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10221490?dopt=AbstractPlus
6. Kahan BD, Podbielski J, Napoli KL et al. Immunosuppressive effects and safety of a sirolimus/cyclosporine combination regimen for renal transplantation. Transplantation. 1998; 66:1040-6. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9808489?dopt=AbstractPlus
7. Kahan BD. Sirolimus: a new agent for clinical renal transplantation. Transplant Proc. 1997; 29:48-50. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9123092?dopt=AbstractPlus
9. Gerber DA, Bonham CA, Thomson AW. Immunosuppressive agents: recent developments in molecular action and clinical application. Transplant Proc. 1998; 30: 1573-9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9636637?dopt=AbstractPlus
10. Kelly PA, Gruber SA, Behbod F et al. Sirolimus, a new, potent immunosuppressive agent. Pharmacotherapy. 1997; 17:1148-56. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9399599?dopt=AbstractPlus
11. First MR. An update on new immunosuppressive drugs undergoing preclinical and clinical trials: potential applications in organ transplantation. Am J Kidney Dis. 1997; 29:303-17. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9016906?dopt=AbstractPlus
12. Vasquez MA. New advances in immunosuppression therapy for renal transplantation. Am J Med Sci. 1997; 314:415-35. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9413350?dopt=AbstractPlus
13. Brattstrom C, Wilczek H, Tyden G et al. Hyperlipidemia in renal transplant recipients treated with sirolimus (rapamycin). Transplantation. 1998; 65:1272-4. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9603181?dopt=AbstractPlus
14. Wyeth, Philadelphia, PA: Personal communication.
15. SangStat Medical Corporation. Dear health care professional letter regarding recall of SangCya. Fremont, CA; July 10, 2000. http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/SafetyAlertsforHumanMedicalProducts
16. Anon. FDA approves new Rapamune labeling likely to improve transplanted kidney functioning. FDA Talk Paper. Rockville, MD: Food and Drug Administration; 2003 Apr 11.
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19. Schena FP, Pascoe MD, Alberu J et al. for the Sirolimus CONVERT Trial study Group. Conversion from calcineurin inhibitors to sirolimus maintenance therapy in renal allograft recipients: 24-month efficacy and safety results from the CONVERT trial. Transplantation. 2009; 87:233-42. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19155978?dopt=AbstractPlus
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22. Rapamune (sirolimus) 1 mg/mL oral solution summary of product characteristics. From the EMEA web site. Accessed 9 Oct 2009. http://www.emea.europa.eu/humandocs/PDFs/EPAR/rapamune/emea-combined-h273en.pdf
23. Kahan BD, Napoli KL, Kelly PA et al. Therapeutic drug monitoring of sirolimus: correlations with efficacy and toxicity. Clin Transplant. 2000; 14:97-109. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10770413?dopt=AbstractPlus
24. Knight RJ, Villa M, Laskey R et al. Risk factors for impaired wound healing in sirolimus-treated renal transplant recipients. Clin Transplant. 2007 Jul-Aug; 21:460-5.
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26. Jefferson Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University. National Transplantation Pregnancy Registry (NTPR). Philadelphia, PA. From the NTPR website. Accessed 2009 Nov 10. https://www.transplantpregnancyregistry.org
27. Chhajed PN, Dickenmann M, Bubendorf L et al. Patterns of pulmonary complications associated with sirolimus. Respiration. 2006; 73:367-74. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16127266?dopt=AbstractPlus
28. Tiong HY, Flechner SM, Zhou L et al. A systematic approach to minimizing wound problems for de novo sirolimus-treated kidney transplant recipients. Transplantation. 2009; 87:296-302. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19155988?dopt=AbstractPlus
29. Steele GH, Adamkovic AB, Demopoulos LA et al. Pericardial effusion coincident with sirolimus therapy: a review of Wyeth's safety database. Transplantation. 2008; 85:645-7. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18347546?dopt=AbstractPlus
30. Truong U, Moon-Grady AJ, Butani L. Cardiac tamponade in a pediatric renal transplant recipient on sirolimus therapy. Pediatr Transplant. 2005; 9:541-4. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16048611?dopt=AbstractPlus
31. Lisik W, Schoenberg L, Lasky RE et al. Statins benefit outcomes of renal transplant recipients on a sirolimus-cyclosporine regimen. Transplant Proc. 2007; 39:3086-92. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18089328?dopt=AbstractPlus
32. Castro G, Freitas C, Beirâo I et al. Chylous ascites in a renal transplant recipient under sirolimus (rapamycin) treatment. Transplant Proc. 2008; 140:1756-8.
33. Tichy EM, Medwid AJ, Mills EA et al. Significant sirolimus and dronedarone interaction in a kidney transplant recipient. Ann Pharmacother. 2010; 44:1338-41. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20484171?dopt=AbstractPlus
34. Sanofi-Aventis. Multaq (dronedarone hydrochloride) tablets prescribing information. Bridgewater, NJ; 2009 Jul.
35. Astellas Pharma US. Prograf (tacrolimus) capsules and injection prescribing information. Deerfield, IL; 2009 Aug..
36. Kusiak V. Dear health care provider letter regarding increased risk of hepatic artery thrombosis, graft loss, and death associated with use of sirolimus (Rapamune) in combination with other immunosuppressants such as cyclosporine or tacrolimus in de novo liver transplant recipients. Philadelphia, PA: Wyeth Pharmaceuticals; 2002 April 24. http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/SafetyAlertsforHumanMedicalProducts/UCM171077.pdf
37. Hamdy AF, Bakr MA, Ghoneim MA. Proteinuria among primarily sirolimus treated live-donor renal transplant recipients' long-term experience. Exper Clin Transplantation. 2010; 8:283-91.
38. McCormack FX, Inoue Y, Moss J, et al. Efficacy and Safety of Sirolimus in Lymphangioleiomyomatosis. NEJM. 2011; 364; 1595-606.
39. Tedesco-Silva H, Peddi VR, Sánchez-Fructuoso A et al. Open-Label, Randomized Study of Transition From Tacrolimus to Sirolimus Immunosuppression in Renal Allograft Recipients. Transplantation Direct. 2016; 2:e69.
484. Food and Drug Administration. FDA alert: Information for healthcare professionals: immunosuppressant drugs: required labeling changes [sirolimus (marketed as Rapamune); cyclosporine (marketed as Sandimmune and generics); cyclosporine modified (marketed as Neoral and generics); mycophenolate mofetil (marketed as Cellcept and generics); mycophenolic acid (marketed as Myfortic)]. Rockville, MD; 2009 Jul 14. From the FDA website. http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/PostmarketDrugSafetyInformationforPatientsandProviders/DrugSafetyInformationforHeathcareProfessionals/ucm171654.htm
485. Wiseman AC. Polyomavirus nephropathy: a current perspective and clinical considerations. Am J Kidney Dis. 2009; 54:131-42. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19394729?dopt=AbstractPlus
486. Bonvoisin C, Weekers L, Xhignesse P et al. Polyomavirus in renal transplantation: a hot problem. Transplantation. 2008; 85:S42-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18401263?dopt=AbstractPlus
487. Mannon RB. Polyomavirus nephropathy: what have we learned?. Transplantation. 2004; 77:1313-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15167583?dopt=AbstractPlus
488. Ziedina I, Folkmane I, Chapenko S et al. Reactivation of BK virus in the early period after kidney transplantation. Transplant Proc. 2009; 41:766-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19328975?dopt=AbstractPlus
489. Dharnidharka VR, Cherikh WS, Abbott KC. An OPTN analysis of national registry data on treatment of BK virus allograft nephropathy in the United States. Transplantation. 2009; 87:1019-26. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19352121?dopt=AbstractPlus
490. Alméras C, Foulongne V, Garrigue V et al. Does reduction in immunosuppression in viremic patients prevent BK virus nephropathy in de novo renal transplant recipients? A prospective study. Transplantation. 2008; 85:1099-104. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18431228?dopt=AbstractPlus
491. Hirsch HH, Brennan DC, Drachenberg CB et al. Polyomavirus-associated nephropathy in renal transplantation: interdisciplinary analyses and recommendations. Transplantation. 2005; 79:1277-86. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15912088?dopt=AbstractPlus
492. Benavides CA, Pollard VB, Mauiyyedi S et al. BK virus-associated nephropathy in sirolimus-treated renal transplant patients: incidence, course, and clinical outcomes. Transplantation. 2007; 84:83-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17627242?dopt=AbstractPlus
493. Mahé E, Morelon E, Lechaton S et al. Cutaneous adverse effects in renal transplant recipients receiving sirolimus-based therapy. Transplantation. 2005; 79:476-82. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15729175?dopt=AbstractPlus
494. Mahé E, Morelon E, Lechaton S et al. Angioedema in renal transplant recipients on sirolimus. Dermatology. 2007; 21:205-9.
495. Wadei H, Gruber SA, El-Amm JM et al. Sirolimus-induced angioedema. Am J Transplant. 2004; 4:1002-5. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15147436?dopt=AbstractPlus
496. Food and Drug Administration. Rapamune(sirolimus). Detailed view: Drug monitoring recommendations. Rockville, MD; 2010 Jan 11. From the FDA web site. http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/SafetyAlertsforHumanMedicalProducts/ucm197059.htm
497. Camardo J. Dear health care provider letter regarding an update to the Rapamune prescribing recommendation for therapeutic drug monitoring of sirolimus. Philadelphia, PA; 2009 Dec 12.
498. McCalmont V, Bennett K. Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy: a case study. Prog Transplant. 2007; 17:157-60. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17624139?dopt=AbstractPlus
499. Waggoner J, Martinu T, Palmer SM. Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy following heightened immunosuppression after lung transplant. J Heart Lung Transplant. 2009; 28:395-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19332268?dopt=AbstractPlus
500. Crowder CD, Gyure KA, Drachenberg CB et al. Successful outcome of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in a renal transplant patient. Am J Transplant. 2005; 5:1151-8. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15816900?dopt=AbstractPlus
501. Boulton-Jones JR, Fraser-Moodie C, Ryder SD. Long term survival from progressive multifocal leucoencephalopathy after liver transplantation. J Hepatol. 2001; 35:828-9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11738115?dopt=AbstractPlus
502. Kharfan-Dabaja MA, Ayala E, Greene J et al. Two cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation and a review of the literature. Bone Marrow Transplant. 2007; 39:101-7. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17143300?dopt=AbstractPlus
503. Shitrit D, Lev N, Bar-Gil-Shitrit A et al. Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in transplant recipients. Transpl Int. 2005; 17:658-65. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15616809?dopt=AbstractPlus
504. Manfro RC, Vedolin L, Cantarelli M et al. Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in a kidney transplant recipient after conversion to mycophenolic acid therapy. Transpl Infect Dis. 2009; 11:189-90. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19210690?dopt=AbstractPlus
505. Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) Transplant Work Group. KDIGO clinical practice guideline for the care of kidney transplant recipients. Am J Transplant. 2009;9(Suppl 3):S1-S157.
506. Nelson J, Alvey N, Bowman L, et al. Consensus recommendations for use of maintenance immunosuppression in solid organ transplantation: endorsed by the American College of Clinical Pharmacy, American Society of Transplantation, and the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation. Pharmacotherapy. 2022;42:599-63.
507. McCormack FX, Gupta N, Finlay GR, et al. on behalf of the ATS/JRS Committee on Lymphangioleiomyomatosis. Official American Thoracic Society/Japanese Respiratory Society clinical practice guidelines: lymphoangioleiomyomatosis diagnosis and management. Am J Resp Crit Care Med. 2016;194:748-61.
508. . Geissler EK, Schnitzbauer AA, Zulke C, et al. Sirolimus use in liver transplant recipients with hepatocellular carcinoma: a randomized, multicenter, open-label phase 3 trial. Transplantation. 2016;100:116-25.
509. Schitzbauer AA, Filmann N, Adam R, et al. mTOR inhibition is most beneficial after liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with active tumors. Ann Surg. 2020;272;855-62.
510. Teperman L, Moonka D, Sebastian A, et al. for the Spare-the-Nephron Trial Liver Transplantation Study Group. Calcineurin inhibitor-free mycophenolate mofetil/sirolimus maintenance in liver transplantation: the randomized Spare-the-Nephron Trial. Liver Transplant. 2013;675-89.
511. Watson CJE, Gimson AES, Alexander GJ, et al. A randomized controlled trial of late conversion from calcineurin inhibitor (CNI)-based to sirolimus-based immunosuppression in liver transplant recipients with impaired renal function. Liver Transplant. 2007;13:1694-1702.
512. Wijesinha M, Hirshon JM, Terrin M, et al. Survival associated with sirolimus plus tacrolimus maintenance without induction therapy compared with standard immunosuppression after lung transplant. JAMA Network Open. 2019;2:e1910297.
513. Bhorade S, Ahya VN, Baz MA, et al. Comparison of sirolimus with azathioprine in a tacrolimus-based immunosuppressive regimen in lung transplantation. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2011;183:379-87.
514. Shitrit D, Rahamimov R, Gidon S, et al. Use of sirolimus and low-dose calcineurin inhibitor in lung transplant recipients with renal impairment: results of a controlled pilot study. Kidney Int. 2005;67:1471-5.
515. Wojarski J, Zeglen S, Ochman M, Karolak W. Early sirolimus-based immunosuppression is safe for lung transplantation patients: retrospective, single arm, exploratory study. Ann Transplant. 2018;23:598-607.
516. Guethoff S, Stroeh K, Grinninger C, et al. De novo sirolimus with low-dose tacrolimus versus full-dose tacrolimus with mycophenolate mofetil after heart transplantation – 8-year results. J Heart Lung Transplant. 2015;34:634-42.
517. Kaczmarek I, Zaruba MM, Beiras-Fernandez, A, et al. Tacrolimus with mycophenolate mofetil or sirolimus compared with calcineurin inhibitor-free immunosuppression (sirolimus/mycophenolate mofetil) after heart transplantation: 5-year results. J Heart Lung Transplant. 2013;32:277-84.
518. Kobashigawa JA, Miller LW, Russell SD, et al. Tacrolimus with mychophenolate mofetil (MMF) or sirolimus vs. cyclosporine with MMF in cardiac transplant patients: 1-year report. Am J Transplant. 2006;6:1377-86.
519. Meiser B, Buchholz S, Kaczmarek I. De-novo calcineurin-inhibitor-free immunosuppression with sirolimus and mychophenolate mofetil after heart transplantation: 5-year results. Curr Opin Organ Transplant. 2011;16:522-8.
520. Zuckermann A, Keogh A, Crespo-Leiro MG, et al. Randomized controlled trial of sirolimus conversion in cardiac transplant recipients with renal insufficiency. Am J Transplant. 2012;12:2487-97.
521. Ciancio G, Sageshima J, Chen L, et al. Advantage of rapamycin over mycophenolate mofetil when used with tacrolimus for simultaneous pancreas kidney transplants: randomized, single-center trial at 10 years. Am J Transplant. 2012;12:3363-76.
522. Girman P, Lipark, Kocik M, et al. Sirolimus vs mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in primary combined pancreas and kidney transplantations. Results of a long-term prospective randomized study. Am J Transplant. 2020;20:779-87.
523. Girman K, Lipar K, Koznarova R, et al. Similar early complication rate in simultaneous pancreas and kidney recipients on tacrolimus/mycophenolate mofetil versus tacrolimus/sirolimus immunosuppressive regimens. Transplant Proc. 2010;42:1999-2002.
524. Rajab A, Pelletier RP, Ferguson RM, et al. Steroid-free maintenance immunosuppression with Rapamune and low-dose Neoral in pancreas transplant recipients. Transplantation. 2007;84:1131-7.
525. Lauro A, Dazzi A, Ercolani G, et al. Rejection episodes and 3-year graft survival under sirolimus and tacrolimus treatment after adult intestinal transplantation. Transplant Proc. 2007;39:1629-31.
526. Fishbein TM, Kaufman SS, Florman SS, et al. Isolated intestinal transplantation: proof of clinical efficacy. Transplantation. 2003;76:636-40.
527. Fishbein TM, Florman S, Gondolesi G, et al. Intestinal transplantation before and after the introduction of sirolimus. Transplantation. 2002;73:1538-42.
528. Petruzzo P, Kanitakis J, Badet L, et al. Long-term follow-up in composite tissue allotransplantation: in-depth study of five (hand and face) recipients. Am J Transplant. 2011;11:808-16.
529. Brandacher G, Ninkovic M, Piza-Katzer H, et al. The Innsbruck Hand Transplant Program: update at 8 years after the first transplant. Transplant Proc. 2009;41:491-4.
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