Binimetinib: An Overview

Summary or Key Points

Binimetinib is a targeted therapy medication primarily used in the treatment of a type of skin cancer known as melanoma. It works by inhibiting the growth and spread of cancer cells. Like any medication, it has specific dosing instructions and potential side effects. Always consult your healthcare provider or a telemedicine professional before making any changes to your medication regimen.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Mektovi (Binimetinib)

The term ‘generic name’ refers to the official medical name for the active ingredient in the medication, in this case, Binimetinib. The generic name is listed in parentheses.

Pharmacologic Category

Binimetinib belongs to a class of medications known as kinase inhibitors. Other medications in this category include Dabrafenib (Tafinlar) and Trametinib (Mekinist).

Dosing

Binimetinib is indicated for the treatment of adults with melanoma. The standard dosing is 45mg, taken twice daily, until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Remember, medication regimens can vary based on individual circumstances, so it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider or book a consultation with one of our telemedicine professionals before adjusting your dosage.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Binimetinib is available in tablet form with strengths of 15mg and 45mg.

Administration Instructions

Binimetinib is taken orally, twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart. It can be taken with or without food. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s within 6 hours of your next scheduled dose. Never take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed one. For personalized instructions, contact your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine professionals.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Like all medications, Binimetinib may cause side effects. These can range from mild to severe and include:

• Common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people): nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, rash, fatigue.
• Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people): vision changes, muscle pain, liver function changes.
• Rare (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people): severe skin reactions, heart problems.

If you experience any of these side effects, or have any concerns, consult your healthcare provider or reach out to one of our telemedicine professionals immediately.

Contraindications

‘Contraindications’ refers to situations in which a particular medication should not be used because it may be harmful. For Binimetinib, contraindications include:

• Allergy to Binimetinib: People who have had an allergic reaction to Binimetinib or any of its ingredients should not use this medication. An allergic reaction can cause severe side effects.

It is always important to discuss potential contraindications with your healthcare provider or consult with one of our telemedicine professionals.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Several medications can interact with Binimetinib, which could affect its effectiveness or cause side effects. These include:

• Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
• Rifampin (Rifadin)
• Phenobarbital (Luminal)

Always provide your healthcare provider or our telemedicine team with a complete list of your current medications to avoid any potential drug interactions.

Binimetinib in Pregnancy

Binimetinib may cause harm to an unborn baby when taken by a pregnant person. Therefore, it’s recommended to avoid using Binimetinib during pregnancy. If you become pregnant while taking Binimetinib, contact your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine professionals immediately.

Binimetinib while Breastfeeding

It’s currently unknown if Binimetinib passes into breast milk. Given the potential risk to the nursing child, breastfeeding while taking Binimetinib is not recommended. Always consult your healthcare provider or a telemedicine professional before making decisions about breastfeeding while on medication.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost for a 30-day supply of Binimetinib (45mg twice daily) without insurance, using a GoodRx coupon, is approximately $11,000. Prices can vary depending on your location and the pharmacy you choose.

Possible Alternatives

For melanoma, potential alternatives may include other targeted therapies, immunotherapies, radiation, surgery, or lifestyle changes such as avoiding sun exposure and wearing sunscreen. Always discuss any potential alternatives with your healthcare provider or a telemedicine professional before making changes to your treatment plan.

Recent Updates on Binimetinib Research

As of 2023, researchers continue to explore the potential of Binimetinib in treating various cancers. Recent studies are investigating Binimetinib’s use in combination with other drugs to enhance its effectiveness. For the most recent and relevant updates on Binimetinib research, always consult with your healthcare provider or reach out to one of our telemedicine professionals.

Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.