Vemurafenib (By mouth)
vem-ue-RAF-e-nib
Treats melanoma.
Drug classes
Antineoplastic Agent (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Vemurafenib is used to treat melanoma (a type of skin cancer) that has spread or that cannot be removed by surgery. It is only used if the melanoma cells have the BRAF V600E mutation. Your doctor will use a special test to look for this mutation. Vemurafenib 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
Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed. Doses should be taken 12 hours apart.
Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, break, or chew it.
If you vomit after you take the medicine, do not take an extra dose. Wait and take your next dose at the normal time.
This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.
Missed dose: If it is more than 4 hours before your next dose, take the tablet as soon as you can. If it is less than 4 hours until your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct 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.
Some medicines can affect how vemurafenib works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
Atazanavir, carbamazepine, clarithromycin, dextromethorphan, digoxin, indinavir, ipilimumab, itraconazole, ketoconazole, midazolam, nefazodone, nelfinavir, phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifabutin, rifampin, rifapentine, ritonavir, saquinavir, telithromycin, voriconazole Blood thinner (including warfarin)When Not To Use
This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to vemurafenib, or if you are pregnant.
Warnings
This medicine may cause birth defects if either partner is using it during conception or pregnancy. Tell your doctor right away if you or your partner becomes pregnant. Use effective birth control during treatment and for 2 months after your treatment ends.
Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease, heart failure, or heart rhythm problems. Tell your doctor if you had or are planning to have radiation treatment.
This medicine may cause the following problems:
New melanoma or squamous cell cancer Serious skin reactions QT prolongation (heart rhythm problem) Liver problemsMedicines 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.
This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.
Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments. An ECG (electrocardiogram) may be needed to check your heart.
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
Blistering, peeling, or red skin rash
Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes
Fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat, fainting, dizziness, lightheadedness
Skin changes, including moles or new sores
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Hair thinning or loss
Tiredness
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
Zelboraf
There may be other brand names for this medicine.
