Drug Notes - Vemurafenib (By mouth) | Lima Memorial Health System

Vemurafenib (By mouth)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to vemurafenib, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you. Doses should be taken 12 hours apart.
Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, break, or chew it.
If you vomit after you take the medicine, do not take an extra dose. Wait and take your next dose at the normal time.
This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.
Missed dose: If it is more than 4 hours before your next dose, take the tablet as soon as you can. If it is less than 4 hours until your next dose, skip the missed dose then take your next dose at the regular time. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Some medicines can affect how vemurafenib works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
- Atazanavir, carbamazepine, clarithromycin, dextromethorphan, digoxin, indinavir, ipilimumab, itraconazole, ketoconazole, midazolam, nefazodone, nelfinavir, phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifabutin, rifampin, rifapentine, ritonavir, saquinavir, telithromycin, tizanidine, voriconazole
- Blood thinner (including warfarin)

This medicine may cause birth defects if either partner is using it during conception or pregnancy. Tell your doctor right away if you or your partner becomes pregnant. Use an effective birth control during treatment with this medicine and for 2 weeks after your last dose.
Do not breastfeed during treatment with this medicine and for 2 weeks after the last dose.
Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, heart failure, heart rhythm problems, or eye problems. Tell your doctor if you had or are planning to have radiation treatment.
This medicine may cause the following problems:
- New skin and non-skin cancer, including melanoma, squamous cell cancer, or myeloid neoplasm
- Serious skin reactions
- Changes in heart rhythm, including QT prolongation
- Liver problems
- Eye or vision problems
- Kidney problems
- Muscle, bone, and connective tissue disease, including Dupuytren contracture or plantar fascial fibromatosis
Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.
This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.
Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Blistering, peeling, red skin rash
Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes
Decrease in how much or how often you urinate, bloody urine, lower back or side pain
Eye pain, vision changes
Fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat, fainting, dizziness, lightheadedness
Skin changes, including moles or new sores
Unusual thickening of the palms of your hands with tightening of the fingers inward
Unusual thickening of the soles which may be painful

Last Updated: 9/6/2024