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I was on Cotellic and Zelboraf .Anyone else? Side effects?

A MyMelanomaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Los Angeles, CA

Post immunotherapy ( Ipi/nevo), Braff +. Started cotellic and Zeboraf. Terrible neck pain, swelling throughout my throat and nasal cavity. Lost my ability to swallow along with 20 lbs. Anyone else? How long did it last?

March 18
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A MyMelanomaTeam Member

NED here as well, but you never know. I'm depending on my Dermatologist and whole body scans every three months at this point.

March 19
A MyMelanomaTeam Member

Oh Lordy.... that sounds atrocious! I've been dealing with melanoma since 2002 & I have done so many treatments. This is treatment I have not heard before. Every treatment I have had, they had to pull me off if because I do not handle side effects well. Right now, I can say I am cancer free. Remission has not been a term Oncology has used just yet. I pray for you! I pray for everyone w/ this Cancer. Melanoma is such an A-hole.

March 19
MyMelanomaTeam

What side effects did you experience with Cotellic and Zelboraf, and how long did they last?

The symptoms you're describing sound really challenging. Zelboraf (vemurafenib) is a BRAF inhibitor that can cause several side effects, though the severe throat swelling and difficulty swallowing you experienced are particularly Show Full Answer

What side effects did you experience with Cotellic and Zelboraf, and how long did they last?

The symptoms you're describing sound really challenging. Zelboraf (vemurafenib) is a BRAF inhibitor that can cause several side effects, though the severe throat swelling and difficulty swallowing you experienced are particularly concerning.

Common side effects from BRAF inhibitors like Zelboraf include:
* Joint and muscle pain
* Skin reactions (rashes, sensitivity to sunlight, peeling)
* Nausea and decreased appetite
* Headaches

The neck pain you mentioned could be related to the joint and muscle pain that some people experience with these medications. However, the severe throat swelling and inability to swallow are serious symptoms that require immediate medical attention.

Weight loss can happen due to difficulty swallowing and decreased appetite, both of which can be side effects of targeted therapies.

The duration of side effects varies from person to person. Some side effects may improve once your body adjusts to the medication or after treatment ends, but it's crucial to discuss these symptoms with your oncology team right away. They may need to adjust your dosage or switch your treatment plan.

Have you been able to connect with your cancer care team about these symptoms?

March 18

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