What is Mekinist?
The treatment of certain forms of melanoma, a form of skin cancer, with Mekinist (in combination or alone) is possible. Combining Mekinist with Dabrafenib can also prevent the return of certain types of melanoma following surgery. Dabrafenib and Mekinist are also combined to treat some types of thyroid cancer, non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC), or other cancers. The combination of Mekinist and Dabrafenib is used to treat solid tumors of certain types in adults, children aged 6 or more years, and certain types of brain cancers (gliomas) in infants and older children. Trametinib is a member of a group of drugs called kinase inhibitors. Mekinist blocks the abnormal protein, which signals to cancer cells that they should multiply. It helps stop cancerous cells from spreading. When surgery cannot be performed, medication may be prescribed to prevent cancer from returning after surgery or when cancer has spread. Mekinist is only effective if you are diagnosed with the right type of tumor.
Side effects of Mekinist
If you experience signs of a serious allergic reaction or severe skin reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling on your face, throat, or nose, or skin pain or blistering, seek emergency medical attention. If you experience a severe drug reaction, seek medical attention. This can include a skin rash or rashy skin, fever, swelling of the glands or muscles, weakness, or unusual bruises. Mekinists can cause a stomach perforation or an enlargement of the intestines or stomach. If you experience severe stomach pain or bleeding, diarrhea, a fever, or vomiting, call your doctor.
The side effects of Mekinist can be serious. If you experience:
- Unusual bruising, bleeding, or new symptoms of illness. (fever and weakness; a cough; diarrhea; urination problems, etc.)
- A skin rash
- Feeling short of breath, coughing;
- Severe headache; blurred vision; or a pounding sensation in the neck, ears, or head
- High blood sugar: increased thirst and urination dry mouth fruity breath odor;
- Signs of eye problems: eye swelling or pain, changes in vision, halos surrounding lights, color dots appearing;
- Signs of bleeding in the body: weakness, dizziness, headache, red or pink urine, bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds;
- Signs of a blood clot: chest pain, sudden cough or trouble breathing, pain or swelling in arm or leg, pale skin, cold feeling in the arm or leg;
- Symptoms of heart disease—breathlessness, even with light exertion.
If you experience certain side effects, your cancer treatment may be delayed.
Side effects of mekinist may include:
- Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and constipation.
- Fever, chills, tiredness, and stomach pain;
- Headache;
- Bleeding;
- Increased blood pressure
- Joint, muscle, or bone pain
- Shortness of breath, cough
- You may experience swelling in your face, arms, and legs.
- Rash, acne, and dry skin
There may be other side effects.Call your physician immediately if experiencing side effects; to report such effects call the FDA directly at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Mekinist and dabrafenib together may increase the risk that you develop a specific type of cancer. Your doctor can tell you more about the risks that are specific to your situation. You should tell your doctor about any new symptoms, such as warts or sores, that will not heal. You should have your healthcare provider check the skin for new cancerous lesions before starting Mekinist and then every 2 months during treatment. You may be asked to continue having your skin checked by your healthcare provider for up to six months following the end of treatment.
Before you take this drug
Tell your doctor about any of the following to ensure that Mekinist will be safe for you:
- Heart problems High blood pressure
- Diabetes;
- Lung or respiratory problems
- A stomach or intestinal problem;
- Eye problems, especially with the retina
- Bleeding problems, blood clots;
- Liver or kidney disease
Mekinists can increase the risk of other cancers. You should discuss this with your doctor. Trametinib may harm an unborn child if either the mother or father uses Mekinist.
- You may require a pregnancy check if you're female. Use birth control during the use of Mekinist and at least four months after. Inform your doctor immediately if you fall pregnant.
- Use condoms if you're male and your partner can get pregnant during the treatment. Continue to use birth control for at least four months after the last treatment.
- Inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant.
You should not breastfeed during treatment with Mekinist or for 4 months following your last dose.
How to take Mekinist?
Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all instructions or guides provided by your physician. Read and follow all instructions that accompany your medication. Sometimes your doctor will change the dose. One dose per day, on an empty stomach at least one hour before or two hours after eating. Do not chew or crush the tablet. Do not take any more Mekinist if you have vomited shortly after taking it. Do not miss your scheduled dose. Before preparing the first dose, read all of the instructions on how to prepare the orally suspended Shake the orally suspended liquid. Use only the measuring device provided (not your kitchen spoon!) when measuring dosage for oral suspension medication or feeding devices, if available. If there is something unclear in these directions or instructions are unclear to you, contact either your pharmacist or doctor immediately for advice or clarification.
Weight is used to determine the dose for children. If your child loses or gains weight, the dose of medication may be adjusted. The results of your medical tests may change the dose you take or how often you take it. Do not forget to attend any scheduled follow-up appointments. You should check your skin frequently during the treatment period and for up to six months following Mekinist. Inform your doctor of any changes in the skin, such as a reddening, an unhealing sore, a wart that is new, or even a change in color or size. Do not freeze the tablet. The medicine should be kept in its original packaging, with the moisture-absorbing packet or canister. Store tablets outside of a pillbox. Keep the mixed oral suspension away from heat and moisture. After 35 days, throw away the suspension.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. Skip the dose in case your next dose is due within 12 hours. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions on foods, drinks, or activities, follow their instructions.
Interaction with other drug
Trametinib may also interact with other drugs, such as prescription or over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the other medications you take.
