Braftovi (Encorafenib)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Braftovi Used For?
Braftovi is an anti-cancer medication that contains encorafenib, used in combination with other drugs to treat specific types of cancer.
Primary Uses
Braftovi is used to treat adult patients with melanoma that has spread or cannot be surgically removed, non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that has spread, and colorectal cancer that has been previously treated.
How It Works
Braftovi works by inhibiting the BRAF protein, which is involved in cancer cell growth, thereby slowing down or stopping the progression of cancer.
Good to know: Braftovi is not addictive.
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How to Take Braftovi
Braftovi should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Dosage Instructions
For melanoma and NSCLC, the recommended dose is six 75 mg capsules once daily (450 mg total). For colorectal cancer, the recommended dose is four 75 mg capsules once daily (300 mg total). Capsules should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water, and can be taken with or without food. Avoid grapefruit juice.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose and it's less than 12 hours late, take it as soon as you remember. If it's more than 12 hours late, skip that dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take a double dose.
Important: Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- fatigue
- nausea
- diarrhoea
- vomiting
- problems with vision
- stomach pain
- joint pain
- abnormal blood test results
- muscle pain
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- heart problems
- serious bleeding
- eye problems
- liver issues
- kidney problems
- skin changes including new warts or moles
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings to consider before taking Braftovi.
Who Should Not Take Braftovi
Do not take Braftovi if you have a known allergy to encorafenib or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have heart problems, liver issues, kidney problems, or any bleeding disorders.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Braftovi is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Braftovi and affect its effectiveness.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid grapefruit juice as it may affect how Braftovi works.
- itraconazole
- posaconazole
- fluconazole
- rifampicin
- clarithromycin
- telithromycin
- erythromycin
- phenytoin
- carbamazepine
- methotrexate
- imatinib
- rosuvastatin
- atorvastatin
- St. John’s wort
- ritonavir
- amprenavir
- raltegravir
- dolutegravir
- hormonal birth control
- diltiazem
- bosentan
- furosemide
- amiodarone
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating machinery while taking Braftovi.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor about alcohol consumption while on Braftovi.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Braftovi may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities if you experience vision problems or other side effects.
Storage
Store Braftovi capsules in their original packaging at a temperature below 25°C in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and sunlight.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Contact the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 or go to the nearest hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Braftovi to show effects can vary based on individual response and the type of cancer being treated.
Braftovi can be taken with or without food.
No, Braftovi is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Braftovi without consulting your doctor, as this may affect your treatment.
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while on Braftovi.
Weight gain is not specifically mentioned as a side effect of Braftovi.
Consult your doctor for guidance on the safety of Braftovi in elderly patients.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember if it's less than 12 hours late, otherwise skip it and take the next dose at the usual time.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.