Understanding Trametinib: Medication Profile

Summary or Key Points

Trametinib, a targeted cancer treatment, plays a crucial role in managing specific types of melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, and thyroid cancer. It belongs to a class of drugs called kinase inhibitors, works by blocking proteins that promote cancer cell growth. Be sure to consult your healthcare provider or a telemedicine professional before starting or adjusting your dose.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Mekinist (Trametinib).

The ‘generic name’ of a medication is the standard medical name for the drug, without reference to a brand or manufacturer. In this case, ‘Trametinib’ is the generic name, and it is provided in parenthesis.

Pharmacologic Category

Trametinib belongs to the pharmacologic category of MEK inhibitors. Other medications in this category include Cobimetinib (Cotellic) and Binimetinib (Mektovi).

Dosing

Trametinib is indicated to treat several types of cancer in adults:

• Melanoma: 2 mg once daily until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
• Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: 2 mg once daily in combination with other cancer medicines, as long as the patient benefits and in the absence of severe side effects.
• Thyroid Cancer: 2 mg once daily or as advised by your healthcare provider.

Please remember to consult with your healthcare provider or a telemedicine professional before adjusting your dose.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Trametinib is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Tablet: 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg.

Administration Instructions

Trametinib should be taken orally, once a day, at approximately the same time each day. It can be taken with or without food. Do not crush or chew the tablets. If a dose is missed, it should not be made up if it is within 12 hours of the next dose.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Trametinib can have several potential side effects. The most common include:

• Rash: This common side effect may manifest as red, itchy skin (often).
• Diarrhea: Loose, watery stools may occur (often).
• High blood pressure: This medication can cause your blood pressure to rise (occasionally).
• Liver problems: Elevated liver enzymes can be an indication of liver injury (rare).

Always consult your healthcare provider or a telemedicine professional if you experience any of these side effects.

Contraindications

A contraindication is a specific situation in which a drug, procedure, or surgery should not be used because it may be harmful to the person. Here are some situations where Trametinib is contraindicated:

• Allergic reactions: Trametinib should not be used by patients who have had a severe allergic reaction to it in the past. The potential for a life-threatening allergic response outweighs any potential benefit.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Trametinib may interact with other medications, leading to potential adverse effects. Here are some medications that could interact with Trametinib:

• Warfarin (Coumadin): May increase the risk of bleeding when used with Trametinib.
• Verapamil (Isoptin, Calan): This blood pressure medication may interfere with how Trametinib works.

Trametinib in Pregnancy

Trametinib can harm an unborn baby. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider or a telemedicine professional.

Trametinib while Breastfeeding

It is not known whether Trametinib passes into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breastfeeding while using Trametinib is not recommended. Consult your healthcare provider or a telemedicine professional for advice.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Trametinib without insurance, using a GoodRx coupon, is around $5,600. Please note that prices may vary depending on the pharmacy and location.

Possible Alternatives

Alternatives to Trametinib exist, but their suitability depends on your specific condition. Always discuss alternatives with your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine professionals before making changes to your treatment plan.

• Melanoma: Other treatment options include immunotherapy and targeted therapies.
• Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Options include surgery, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or other targeted therapies.
• Thyroid Cancer: Potential alternatives can be surgery, radiation therapy, or radioactive iodine treatment.

Recent Updates on Trametinib Research

Trametinib continues to be the subject of numerous clinical trials and studies. Recent research indicates Trametinib may have efficacy in combination with other medications for conditions beyond its current approved uses. As research advances, Trametinib’s role in cancer treatment may expand further, offering hope to patients with various cancer types.

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.