General Information
Braftovi (Encorafenib) is a cancer medicine. This inhibits the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body. This is specifically used to treat a type of skin cancer which is melanoma. This is only for patients whose cancer cells have a specific mutation in their genes called BRAF V600. Braftovi is used with another medication which is binimetinib.
How do Braftovi (Encorafenib) Capsules work?
In melanoma tumors with the BRAF V600 mutation, an abnormal form of the protein BRAF is present. In which, it switches on another protein called MEK involved in stimulating cell division. This encourages cancers to grow by letting the uncontrolled division of cells. The active substance in Braftovi is Encorafenib. It works by blocking the BRAF protein thereby stopping its activation by MEK. It also slows down the development and spread of cancer.
Why use Braftovi (Encorafenib) Capsules?
Braftovi (Encorafenib) belongs to the class of drugs known as kinase inhibitors. This capsule for oral use contains 50mg or 75mg of Encorafenib. In the year 2018, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved this treatment.
How to use Braftovi (Encorafenib) Capsules?
The recommended dose of Braftovi Capsule will depend on your condition and response to it. Patients normally take 450mg or six 75mg capsules once a day. But they can have the dose reduced or treatment stopped temporarily if there are troublesome side effects. Treatment with Braftovi can last for as long as the patient is benefiting from it. Follow your doctor’s prescription carefully. To avoid unnecessary effects, do not twice the prescribed dosage. Use it regularly to get the most benefit of it.
What are the side-effects of Braftovi (Encorafenib) Capsules?
Common side effects of Braftovi in combination with binimetinib include:
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Fever
- Constipation
- Muscle weakness
- Pain in extremities
- Thickening skin
- Rash
- Dry skin
- Hair loss
- Itching
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nerve pain in extremities
- Bleeding
Warnings and Precautions
- Before using this medication, inform your doctor if you have any allergies, medical history or current medications (vitamins, herbal supplements)
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding women, consult first your doctor.
- Do not use this longer than prescribed.
- You should not recommend this to others who have the same condition as yours.
- Avoid driving or do anything that needs your full alertness. This drug may make you feel dizzy.
- Keep this away from moisture, heat, and reach of children.
