Drug Notes

Trametinib (By mouth)

Trametinib (tra-ME-ti-nib)

Treats melanoma (skin cancer).

Brand Name(s):

Mekinist

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• Take this medicine at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose. If your next dose is less than 12 hours away, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at your regular dosing time.
• Store the medicine in the refrigerator in the original bottle. Do not freeze. Keep away from moisture and light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• It is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It could harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant. Birth control pills may not work as well to prevent pregnancy when used with this medicine. Use a second form of birth control along with your pills. Use birth control during treatment and for 4 months after your last dose.
• Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, or if you have heart or lung disease, breathing problems, high blood pressure, or eye problems.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Eye or vision problems
  • Heart problems (including heart failure)
  • High blood pressure
  • Lung or breathing problems
  • Severe skin rash or infections
• This medicine could cause infertility in women. Talk with your doctor before using this medicine if you plan to have children.
• Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Blurred vision, changes in vision
• Fast, slow, or pounding heartbeat
• Rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet
• Redness, swelling, peeling, or tenderness of the hands or feet
• Severe headache, lightheadedness, or dizziness
• Severe rash, redness, or acne
• Shortness of breath, cold sweat, or bluish-colored skin
• Trouble breathing, cough

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Diarrhea, stomach pain
• Sores or white patches on your lips, mouth, or throat
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017