How should I take temsirolimus (Torisel)?

Temsirolimus is to be given into a vein over 30 to 60 minutes by a doctor or nurse in a medical facility. Temsirolimus is usually given once every week.

You may experience symptoms such as hives, rash, itching, difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the face, flushing, or chest pain.

Do not stop taking treatment without talking to your doctor. You can help them by tracking your side effects in Ankr.

What are the side effects of temsirolimus (Torisel)?

Temsirolimus may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while receiving this medication.

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online or by phone (1-800-332-1088).

Use the free Ankr platform or Ankr app to track your symptoms.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking temsirolimus (Torisel)

• tell your doctor about your allergies
• tell your doctor about other intakes
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had any disease, symptom, ro treatment
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, or if you plan to father a child. Talk to your doctor about birth control methods that will work for you.

While you are on temsirolimus (Torisel)

• If you or your partner become pregnant while taking temsirolimus, call your doctor immediately. Temsirolimus may harm the fetus.
• tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding. You should not breastfeed while receiving temsirolimus.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are receiving temsirolimus.
• you should know that you may be more at risk of getting an infection while you are receiving temsirolimus. Be sure to wash your hands frequently and avoid contact with people who are sick.
• do not have any vaccinations (e.g., measles, chicken pox, or flu shots) without talking to your doctor.

I forgot a dose. What should I do?

If you miss an appointment to receive a dose of temsirolimus, call your doctor right away.

In case of an emergency/overdose

In case of overdose, call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222. Information is also available online at https://www.poisonhelp.org/help. If the victim has collapsed, had a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can’t be awakened, immediately call emergency services at 911.

Symptoms of overdose may include:

• seizure
• hallucinating (seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist)
• difficulty thinking clearly, understanding reality, or using good judgment
• cough
• shortness of breath
• fever
• new or worsening abdominal pain
• panting or fast breathing
• red blood in stools
• diarrhea
• leg pain, swelling, tenderness, redness, or warmth

How should I safely store and dispose of temsirolimus (Torisel)?

This medication will be stored at your doctor’s office or clinic.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while taking this medication.

Brand names

• Torisel^®

Last Reviewed – 12/26/2023, FDA-updated- 11/15/2023, SG