About vemurafenib
BRAF kinase inhibitor
Used for
- Treats certain BRAF V600 mutation-positive unresectable or metastatic melanoma.
- Treats certain BRAF V600 mutation-positive Erdheim-Chester disease.
Usual adult dose
Melanoma: 960 mg by mouth twice daily. Erdheim-Chester disease: 960 mg twice daily; specialist-directed adjustments may apply.
Common side effects
- Joint pain, rash, hair loss, and fatigue
- Nausea, diarrhea, or reduced appetite
- Sun sensitivity and skin reactions
- New skin cancers, including squamous-cell carcinoma
Important warnings
- Confirm the BRAF V600 mutation before treatment.
- Can cause serious skin reactions, liver injury, and abnormal heart rhythm.
- Avoid excessive sunlight; use protective clothing and sunscreen.
- Monitor for new skin lesions and other cancers.
Pregnancy
May harm an unborn baby. Effective contraception is recommended during treatment and for two weeks after the final dose.
Breastfeeding
Do not breastfeed during treatment and for two weeks after the final dose.
Interactions
- Can affect medicines processed by CYP1A2 or CYP3A4 enzymes.
- May increase effects of warfarin; monitor clotting closely.
- Medicines that prolong the QT interval may increase heart-rhythm risks.
- Acid-reducing medicines can affect absorption.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.