Key facts about Zelboraf
What is Zelboraf?
Zelboraf is the brand name for vemurafenib oral tablet.
What dosages is Zelboraf available in?
Zelboraf is available as a 240 mg oral tablet.
What is Zelboraf used for?
Zelboraf is a BRAF inhibitor and is used for the following:
Melanoma with a certain BRAF mutation that has spread (metastatic) or can’t be removed by surgery Erdheim-Chester disease (ECD) with a certain BRAF mutation
How does Zelboraf work?
Zelboraf is a kinase inhibitor known as a BRAF inhibitor. The BRAF protein helps cells (including cancer cells) grow. And when the BRAF protein is mutated, the cancer can grow uncontrollably and spread more quickly. By blocking BRAF, Zelboraf helps stop tumor growth.
How do I take Zelboraf?
The usual dose is 960 mg (four 240 mg tablets) by mouth every 12 hours.
Is it safe for me to take Zelboraf?
Zelboraf is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you.
Zelboraf Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Zelboraf:
- Joint pain
- Tiredness
- Rash
- Sun sensitivity
- Hair loss
- Nausea
- Itching
- Skin papilloma
- Diarrhea
- Thickened skin
- Headache
- Vomiting
Zelboraf Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Zelboraf. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Serious allergic reactions: rash, fever, trouble breathing, swelling of the face or mouth
- Serious skin reactions: painful blisters, skin wounds, peeling skin
- Serious liver problems: upper stomach pain, yellow skin, yellow around the whites of the eyes
- Changes in heart rhythm: lightheadedness, blurry vision, fainting, seizures, loss of consciousness
- Serious reaction in people who’ve received radiation therapy: see Warnings for more details
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Zelboraf
The following medications may interact with Zelboraf:
- Avoid concomitant administration of Zelboraf with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers
- CYP1A2 Substrates: Zelboraf can increase concentrations of CYP1A2 substrates. Avoid concomitant use of Zelboraf with CYP1A2 substrates with a narrow therapeutic window. If coadministration cannot
- be avoided, monitor closely for toxicities and consider dose reduction of CYP1A2 substrates
Who makes Zelboraf?
Genentech, Inc.
Is Zelboraf safe in pregnancy?
Based on its mechanism of action, Zelboraf can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Zelboraf and for 2 weeks after the final dose.
