Trametinib (By mouth)
tra-ME-ti-nib
Treats melanoma (skin cancer).
Drug classes
Antineoplastic Agent (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Trametinib is used alone or in combination with dabrafenib to treat melanoma (skin cancer) that has spread or that cannot be removed by surgery. It is only used if the melanoma cells have the BRAF V600E or V600K mutations. Your doctor will use a special test to look for these mutations. Trametinib belongs to the group of medicines called antineoplastics (cancer medicines).
This medicine is available only with your doctor’s prescription.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Tablet
Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
Take this medicine at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose. If your next dose is less than 12 hours away, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at your regular dosing time.
Store the medicine in the refrigerator in the original bottle. Do not freeze. Keep away from moisture and light.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
When Not To Use
This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to trametinib or if you are pregnant.
Warnings
It is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It could harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant. Birth control pills may not work as well to prevent pregnancy when used with this medicine. Use a second form of birth control along with your pills. Use birth control during treatment and for 4 months after your last dose.
Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, or if you have heart or lung disease, breathing problems, high blood pressure, or eye problems.
This medicine may cause the following problems:
Eye or vision problems Heart problems (including heart failure) High blood pressure Lung or breathing problems Severe skin rash or infectionsThis medicine could cause infertility in women. Talk with your doctor before using this medicine if you plan to have children.
Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Blurred vision, changes in vision
Fast, slow, or pounding heartbeat
Rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet
Redness, swelling, peeling, or tenderness of the hands or feet
Severe headache, lightheadedness, or dizziness
Severe rash, redness, or acne
Shortness of breath, cold sweat, or bluish-colored skin
Trouble breathing, cough
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Sores or white patches on your lips, mouth, or throat
Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Mekinist
There may be other brand names for this medicine.
