Zelboraf (Vemurafenib)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Zelboraf Used For?
Zelboraf is a medication that contains vemurafenib and is used to treat a specific type of skin cancer known as metastatic melanoma, which has spread to other areas of the body.
Primary Uses
Zelboraf is primarily used for treating metastatic melanoma in patients whose tumors have a mutation in the BRAF gene.
How It Works
Zelboraf works by targeting proteins produced by the mutated BRAF gene, which helps slow down the progression of cancer.
Good to know: Zelboraf is not addictive.
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How to Take Zelboraf
It is important to take Zelboraf exactly as prescribed by your doctor to ensure its effectiveness.
Dosage Instructions
The recommended dosage is 4 tablets taken twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening, approximately 12 hours apart. Take the tablets on an empty stomach, either at least 1 hour before or at least 2 hours after a meal.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is less than 4 hours until your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Important: Never double the dose to make up for a missed dose.
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:
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Chills
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Sunburn or sun sensitivity
- Skin problems including rashes, itching, dry or scaly skin
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe allergic reactions (swelling of face, lips, tongue, difficulty breathing)
- Blisters or peeling skin
- Bleeding
- Dizziness
- Heart problems
- Vision problems
Impulse Control Issues
There are no specific mentions of impulse control issues related to Zelboraf in the provided information.
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations to keep in mind before using Zelboraf.
Who Should Not Take Zelboraf
Do not use Zelboraf if you have a known allergy to vemurafenib or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have heart disorders, liver problems, kidney issues, or low blood levels of potassium, calcium, or magnesium.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Zelboraf is not recommended during pregnancy, and it is unknown if it passes into breast milk. Women of childbearing potential and men should use effective contraception during treatment and for 6 months after.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Zelboraf, affecting its efficacy.
Grapefruit interaction: Grapefruit may affect how Zelboraf works.
- Ipilimumab
- Warfarin
- Ketoconazole
- Itraconazole
- Voriconazole
- Atazanavir
- Saquinavir
- Ritonavir
- Nelfinavir
- Phenytoin
- Carbamazepine
- Phenobarbital
- Rifampicin
- Rifabutin
- Rifapentine
- Clarithromycin
- Telithromycin
- Nefazodone
- St. John's Wort
- Caffeine
- Olanzapine
- Clozapine
- Theophylline
- Tizanidine
- Verapamil
- Cyclosporin
- Dronedarone
- Digoxin
- Amiodarone
- Amitriptyline
- Imipramine
- Azithromycin
- Ondansetron
- Domperidone
- Methotrexate
- Mitoxantrone
- Rosuvastatin
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating vehicles while on Zelboraf.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol use while taking Zelboraf.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how Zelboraf affects you, as it may cause vision changes.
Temperature Regulation
There are no specific temperature regulation warnings mentioned.
Storage
Store Zelboraf in its original blister pack in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Avoid storing it in the bathroom or near sinks.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose of Zelboraf, seek immediate medical attention. Contact the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for Zelboraf to work can vary by individual, and your doctor will monitor your response to treatment.
Zelboraf should be taken on an empty stomach, either at least 1 hour before or at least 2 hours after a meal.
No, Zelboraf is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Zelboraf without consulting your doctor, as this may affect your treatment.
Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while on Zelboraf.
Weight gain is not specifically mentioned as a side effect of Zelboraf.
Elderly patients should discuss their health conditions with their doctor before taking Zelboraf.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's close to your next dose. Never double the 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.