MedDataToolMekinist is a medication used to treat certain types of skin cancer, specifically melanoma with BRAF V600E or V600K mutations, as well as some lung and thyroid cancers. It works by blocking specific proteins that help cancer cells grow, which can slow down or stop the spread of the disease. You take Mekinist as a tablet or oral solution, starting with a dose of 2 mg once daily for adults, and the dose may vary for children based on their weight. A key warning is that Mekinist is not recommended for patients with colorectal cancer due to known resistance issues. Additionally, it is important to avoid taking Mekinist with dabrafenib, as they are often used together, and your healthcare provider will guide you on the correct dosing for both medications.
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Uses
- Unresectable or metastatic melanoma with BRAF V600E or V600K mutations.
- Adjuvant treatment of melanoma with BRAF V600E or V600K mutations.
- Metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with BRAF V600E mutation.
- Locally advanced or metastatic anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) with BRAF V600E mutation.
- Unresectable or metastatic solid tumors with BRAF V600E mutation in patients aged 1 year and older.
- Low-grade glioma (LGG) with BRAF V600E mutation in pediatric patients aged 1 year and older.
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Dosage
2 mg orally once daily for adults.
Pediatric dosing based on body weight.
Take at the same time each day.
Take on an empty stomach.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
rashdiarrhealymphedemapyrexianauseavomitingfatigue
Serious
hemorrhagecardiomyopathyinterstitial lung diseasesevere skin reactions
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Not for colorectal cancer due to resistance.
- Monitor for new primary malignancies.
- Risk of hemorrhage and serious skin reactions.
- Use caution in patients with heart problems.
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Drug interactions
- Dabrafenibused in combination with MEKINISTCaution
Ask about this drug
Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).