Mekinist ® - TheGIConnection

Class: Biological Therapy
Generic Name: trametinib
Trade Name: Mekinist ^®

How is this drug used? Mekinist is used for the treatment of melanoma that has metastasized or cannot surgically removed and that tests positive for certain mutations (V600E or V600K) in the BRAF gene.

What is the mechanism of action? BRAF gene mutations are common in advanced melanoma and can contribute to cancer growth. Mekinist inhibits the protein produced by the mutated gene and helps to control cancer growth.

How is Mekinist given (administered)? Mekinist is taken orally (by mouth).

How are patients monitored? Patients will usually have scheduled meetings with their healthcare provider while they are being treated with Mekinist. Patients may have periodic blood tests, scans, and other procedures in order to assess side effects and response to therapy.

What are the most common side effects of treatment with Mekinist?

Rash
Diarrhea
Swelling of the legs, arms, or face

What are some of the less common but potentially serious side effects of Mekinist?

Heart problems
Eye problems
Lung problems
Severe skin rash

This is not a complete list of side effects. Some patients may experience other side effects that are not listed here. Patients may wish to discuss with their physician the other less common side effects of this drug, some of which may be serious.

Some side effects may require medical attention. Other side effects do not require medical attention and may go away during treatment. Patients should check with their physician about any side effects that continue or are bothersome.

What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

Pay careful attention to the physician’s instructions, and discuss side effects with your physician.

Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

Patients should inform their physician about all medical conditions, including problems with your heart, liver, kidney, eyes, or lungs; high blood pressure; or breathing problems.
Patients should inform their physician of any other medication or supplement they are taking, whether prescription or over-the-counter.
Patients should inform their physician if they are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a family in the near future. Mekinist can harm an unborn baby.

When should patients notify their physician?

Tell your doctor if you experience any side effects that bother you or don’t go away. Also tell your doctor if you notice signs of heart problems (such as racing heart, shortness of breath, swelling of the feet or ankles, or lightheadedness); signs of eye problems (such as blurred vision or other vision changes); signs of lung problems (such as cough or shortness of breath); or skin changes (such as rash, redness, peeling, tenderness, or acne).

What is a package insert?

A package insert is required by the FDA and contains a summary of the essential scientific information needed for the safe and effective use of the drug for healthcare providers and consumers. A package insert typically includes information regarding specific indications, administration schedules, dosing, side effects, contraindications, results from some clinical trials, chemical structure, pharmacokinetics and metabolism of the specific drug. By carefully reviewing the package insert, you will get the most complete and current information about how to safely use this drug. If you do not have the package insert for the drug you are using, your pharmacist or physician may be able to provide you with a copy.

Important Limitations of Use

The information provided above on the drug you have selected is provided for your information only and is not a substitute for consultation with an appropriate medical doctor. We are providing this information solely as a courtesy and, as such, it is in no way a recommendation as to the safety, efficacy or appropriateness of any particular drug, regimen, dosing schedule for any particular cancer, condition or patient nor is it in any way to be considered medical advice. Patients should discuss the appropriateness of a particular drug or chemotherapy regimen with their physician.

As with any printed reference, the use of particular drugs, regimens and drug dosages may become out-of-date over time, since new information may have been published and become generally accepted after the latest update to this printed information. Please keep in mind that health care professionals are fully responsible for practicing within current standards, avoiding use of outdated regimens, employing good clinical judgment in selecting drugs and/or regimens, in calculating doses for individual patients, and verifying all dosage calculations.

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