Binimetinib, developed by Pierre Fabre in France, was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2018, providing a new treatment option for patients with melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer.
Indications for Binimetinib:
1. Melanoma
Binimetinib is used to treat melanoma with a BRAF gene mutation, in patients who are not candidates for surgical treatment or whose cancer has metastasized to other parts of the body. It must be used in combination with braftovi.
2. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Binimetinib is used to treat adult patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer harboring the BRAFV600E gene mutation. It must be used in combination with braftovi.
Precautions before taking Binimetinib
1. Binimetinib may harm the fetus and even cause birth defects. It is contraindicated in pregnant women.
2. Effective contraception must be used to avoid pregnancy during Binimetinib treatment and for at least 30 days after the last dose.
3. A pregnancy test may be required before starting treatment. The medication should only be used if the test result is negative.
4. Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for at least 3 days after the last dose.
Used Dosage of Binimetinib
1. Adult Metastatic Melanoma
Binimetinib, when used in combination with cannefenib, is administered orally at a dose of 45 mg every 12 hours (twice daily) until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity occurs.
2. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Binimetinib is used in combination with encorafenib, at a dose of 45 mg orally every 12 hours (twice daily) until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity occurs.
3. Management of Vomiting
If vomiting occurs after taking the medication, no additional dose is needed; continue with the scheduled next dose.
4. Management of Missed Doses
If you miss a dose of binimetinib, take it as soon as possible. If less than 6 hours have passed since your next dose, skip the missed dose. Never take two doses at once.
Side Effects of Binimetinib
1. Serious Side Effects of Binimetinib
If you experience any of the following while taking Binimetinib, call your doctor immediately:
(1) Liver problems
Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
(2) Signs of bleeding
Weakness, dizziness, headache, bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomiting coffee-ground-like vomit;
(3) Signs of blood clots
Chest pain, sudden cough or difficulty breathing, pain or swelling in the arms or legs, pale skin, coldness in the arms or legs;
(4) Signs of heart problems
Shortness of breath (even with slight activity), rapid heartbeat, swelling in the feet or ankles. (5) Other
Cough, shortness of breath; unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness; eye pain or swelling, changes in vision, seeing halos around lights, colored "dots" in the field of vision; severe rash, painful or swollen skin, redness and peeling of the skin on the hands and feet.
2. Common Side Effects of Binimetinib
Common side effects of binimetinib may include: nausea, vomiting, stomach pain; diarrhea; feeling tired.
Precautions for Binimetinib
1. Follow your doctor's instructions regarding restrictions on food, drinks, or activities.
2. Other medications may affect binimetinib, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all the medications you are currently using and any medications you start or stop using.
