Zelboraf (Vemurafenib) for Melanoma

Overview
Zelboraf is a prescription medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of advanced melanoma that can’t be removed by surgery, has spread to other parts of the body, and is found in people with a specific gene mutation (gene change) called BRAF V600E or V600K. Zelboraf is also used to treat people with Erdheim-Chester disease with the BRAF V600 mutation. It is not recommended for people with wild-type BRAF melanoma. Zelboraf is also known by its drug name, vemurafenib.

Zelboraf is a kinase inhibitor. It is believed to work by targeting and stopping the activity of the mutated BRAF protein. By blocking this protein's action, Zelboraf helps slow down or stop the growth of these melanoma cells. 

How do I take it?
Zelboraf is generally taken by mouth twice daily, with or without a meal. Zelboraf should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Side effects
Common side effects of Zelboraf include joint pain, rash, hair loss, fatigue, sensitivity to light, nausea, itching, and skin growths. 

Rare but severe side effects of Zelboraf may include developing new cancers (skin cancer and other types), serious hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS syndrome), severe dermatologic reactions, QT prolongation (can cause potentially life-threatening irregular heartbeats), liver damage, sensitivity to light, serious ophthalmologic reactions, reactions to radiation therapy, kidney failure, Dupuytren’s contracture (hand deformity), and plantar fascial fibromatosis (foot tissue thickening). In addition, Zelboraf can be harmful to unborn babies and should not be taken by those who are breastfeeding.

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Label: Zelboraf — Vemurafenib Tablet, Film Coated — DailyMed

Zelboraf (Vemurafenib) Tablet for Oral Use — Genentech