Vemurafenib is a medication used to treat certain types of skin cancer. It is a type of cancer drug known as a BRAF inhibitor. Vemurafenib is used to treat melanoma that has spread to other parts of the body or cannot be surgically removed. It works by blocking a protein called BRAF, which helps some types of skin cancer to grow. Vemurafenib is usually given in combination with another medication, cobimetinib. Vemurafenib can help to shrink tumors and slow down the growth of cancer. It is usually taken twice a day for as long as your doctor recommends.
Vemurafenib, sold under the brand name Zeloraf, is a prescription medication used to treat specific types of skin cancer and a rare blood cell cancer. Here's a closer look at its key features:
Conditions treated:
- Melanoma: Vemurafenib is primarily used for treating a certain type of advanced (metastatic) melanoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer. This includes melanomas that cannot be removed by surgery or have spread to other parts of the body. However, it's important to note that vemurafenib is only effective for melanomas with a specific genetic mutation in the BRAF gene.
- Erdheim-Chester disease (ECD): Vemurafenib is also approved for treating a rare blood cell cancer called Erdheim-Chester disease. This condition causes an overproduction of abnormal white blood cells that infiltrate various organs.
Mechanism of action:
- Targets BRAF mutation: Vemurafenib belongs to a class of drugs called BRAF inhibitors. It specifically targets a mutated form of the BRAF protein in cancer cells. This mutation promotes uncontrolled cell growth and division. By inhibiting the BRAF protein, vemurafenib helps slow down or stop the growth and spread of cancer cells.
Administration:
- Oral tablets: Vemurafenib comes as tablets taken by mouth, typically twice a day (every 12 hours) with or without food.
Important considerations:
- Genetic testing required: Before starting vemurafenib treatment for melanoma, a doctor will perform a genetic test to confirm the presence of the BRAF mutation. Vemurafenib is only effective for BRAF-positive melanomas.
- Potential side effects: Vemurafenib can cause various side effects, including fatigue, joint pain, skin rash, hair loss, nausea, and diarrhea. Some side effects can be serious, so it's crucial to be monitored by a doctor while taking this medication.
- Increased risk of new skin cancers: Vemurafenib may increase the risk of developing new skin cancers, including squamous cell carcinoma. Regular skin checks are essential during treatment.