Uses
Binimetinib is used along with encorafenib (Braftovi) to treat certain types of melanoma (a type of skin cancer) that has spread to other parts of the body or cannot be removed by surgery. Binimetinib is in a class of medications called kinase inhibitors. It works by blocking the action of the abnormal protein that signals cancer cells to multiply. This helps to stop or slow the spread of cancer cells.
Side Effects Of Binimetinib
Binimetinib may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- fatigue
- nausea
- diarrhea
- vomiting
- abdominal pain
- constipation
- dizziness
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- vision changes or eye pain, swelling, or redness
- fever, sore throat, chills, cough, or other signs of infection
- yellow eyes or skin, dark urine, loss of appetite, fatigue, or pain or discomfort in right upper stomach area
- unusual weakness, muscle pain, or dark red or brown urine
- unusual bleeding or bruising; black, tarry, or bloody stools; or coughing up blood
- shortness of breath or cough
- sudden onset of difficulty breathing; chest pain; swelling of the feet, ankles, or lower legs; or leg pain, warmth, or swelling
- fast, pounding heartbeat; shortness of breath; swelling of ankles and feet; or dizziness
Binimetinib may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
Warnings & Precautions
Before taking binimetinib:
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to binimetinib, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in binimetinib tablets. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, you are taking or plan to take. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart or liver disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. You will have to take a pregnancy test before starting treatment. You should use birth control to prevent pregnancy during your treatment with binimetinib and for 30 days after your final dose. Talk to your doctor about methods of birth control that will work for you. If you become pregnant while taking binimetinib, call your doctor immediately. Binimetinib may harm the fetus.
- tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding. Do not breastfeed while you are taking binimetinib and for 3 days after your final dose.
Binimetinib Dosage
Binimetinib comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken with or without food twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart. Take binimetinib at around the same time(s) every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take binimetinib exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
If you vomit after taking the medication, do not take another dose. Continue your regular dosing schedule.
Your doctor may decrease or temporarily or permanently stop your treatment depending on if you experience any side effects. Be sure to tell your doctor how you are feeling during your treatment with binimetinib.
Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer’s information for the patient.
Other
Keep all appointments with your doctor, eye doctor, and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests, including eye exams, to check your body’s response to binimetinib.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Source
All information has been provided courtesy of MedLinePlus from the National Library of Medicine and from the FDA.
