Vemurafenib
Generic name: vemurafenib [ VEM-ue-RAF-e-nib ]
Brand name: Zelboraf
Dosage form: oral tablet (240 mg)
Drug class:Multikinase inhibitors
What is vemurafenib?
Vemurafenib is used to treat melanoma (skin cancer) that has spread to other parts of the body or cannot be removed by surgery.
Vemurafenib is also used to treat Erdheim-Chester Disease (a rare blood cancer).
Vemurafenib is used only if your cancer has a specific genetic marker (an abnormal "BRAF" gene). Your doctor will test you for this gene.
Vemurafenib may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Vemurafenib is used to treat melanoma, but vemurafenib can increase your risk of developing other types of skin cancer. Report any new or worsening skin lesions to your doctor right away.
Many drugs can interact with vemurafenib. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any you start or stop using
Before taking this medicine
You should not use vemurafenib if you are allergic to it.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
liver or kidney disease;
heart problems;
long QT syndrome (in you or a family member); or
an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of calcium, potassium, or magnesium in your blood).
Tell your doctor about all radiation treatments you are scheduled to receive, or have received in the past.
Using vemurafenib may increase your risk of developing other types of skin cancer. Report any new or worsening skin lesions to your doctor right away.
Vemurafenib may harm an unborn baby. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using this medicine, and for 2 weeks after your last dose. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant.
Do not breastfeed while using this medicine, and for at least 2 weeks after your last dose.
How should I take vemurafenib?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Take the medicine every 12 hours, with or without food.
Swallow the tablet whole and do not crush, chew, or break it.
If you vomit shortly after taking vemurafenib, do not take another dose. Wait until your next scheduled dose time to take the medicine again.
You will need frequent medical tests.
To make sure vemurafenib is not causing harmful effects, your skin condition will need to be checked often. Your heart function may also need to be tested with an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) on a regular basis. You may also need eye exams. Your cancer treatments may be delayed based on the results of these tests.
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