Mekinist (Trametinib)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Mekinist Used For?
Mekinist is a medication that contains trametinib, used primarily for treating specific types of cancer.
Primary Uses
Mekinist is used to treat adult patients with melanoma, anaplastic thyroid cancer, and non-small cell lung cancer, as well as to prevent melanoma from returning after surgery. In children aged 1 year and older, it treats brain tumors following other treatments.
How It Works
Mekinist targets proteins produced by a mutated gene called BRAF, which may be responsible for cancer growth, thereby slowing or stopping the cancer's progression.
Good to know: Mekinist is not addictive.
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How to Take Mekinist
Mekinist should be taken as directed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily.
Dosage Instructions
The typical adult dose is one 2 mg tablet taken once daily on an empty stomach, either at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating. For children, the dosage is based on body weight.
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 the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the 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:
- cough
- headache
- fever
- fatigue
- diarrhea
- vomiting
- rash
- dry mouth
- itching
- hair loss
- swelling
- flu-like symptoms
- joint or muscle pain
- tingling
- weakness
- blurry vision
- mouth sores
- nosebleeds
- bruising
- irritated skin
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- severe tummy pain
- blood in stool or vomit
- difficulty breathing
- swelling of face or lips
- vision loss
- sudden bleeding
- confusion
- decreased urine output
- irregular heartbeat
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations before taking Mekinist.
Who Should Not Take Mekinist
Do not take Mekinist if you are allergic to trametinib or any of its ingredients, are pregnant, or are under 12 months of age.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have heart, eye, bleeding, lung, skin, kidney, liver, or gut problems.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Mekinist is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential harm to the baby. Women must use effective contraception while taking Mekinist and for at least 16 weeks after stopping.
Drug Interactions
Some medications may interfere with Mekinist's effectiveness.
- Other cancer treatments
- Certain heart medications
- Blood thinners
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating machinery while on Mekinist.
Alcohol
Inform your doctor if you consume alcohol, as it may affect your treatment.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Exercise caution when driving or using machinery until you know how Mekinist affects you.
Storage
Store Mekinist tablets and powder in the refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C. Once the powder is made into a solution, keep it below 25°C and do not freeze.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose of Mekinist, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Mekinist to show effects can vary based on individual conditions and response to treatment.
No, Mekinist should be taken on an empty stomach, either at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating.
No, Mekinist is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Mekinist suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it may affect your treatment.
It's advisable to inform your doctor if you consume alcohol while taking Mekinist.
Weight changes can occur, but specific information about weight gain was not provided.
Elderly patients should discuss their overall health and any specific concerns with their doctor before taking Mekinist.
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 the missed dose.
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.