The combination of TAFINLAR (dabrafenib) and MEKINIST (trametinib) is a targeted therapy designed to inhibit the activity of BRAF and MEK proteins, which are involved in the signaling pathways that promote cancer cell growth. This combination has shown efficacy in treating BRAF V600 mutation-positive cancers, including unresectable or metastatic melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC). TAFINLAR + MEKINIST has been studied in more than 6,000 BRAF-positive patients across various clinical trials and has been prescribed to over 200,000 patients worldwide. The safety profile of TAFINLAR + MEKINIST is consistent with the known effects observed in previous studies, with common side effects including fever, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and skin reactions. Novartis continues to explore additional therapeutic applications and combinations to enhance the efficacy and safety of this treatment regimen.
Melanoma is a type of cancer that develops in the melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. It is the most serious form of skin cancer and can occur anywhere on the body, including areas not typically exposed to sunlight. Melanoma is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of melanocytes, which can form malignant tumors. Key risk factors include excessive UV exposure, fair skin, a history of sunburns, and genetic predisposition. If detected early, melanoma is highly treatable, but it can spread to other parts of the body, making it more challenging to treat in advanced stages. Treatments typically include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies such as BRAF and MEK inhibitors for specific genetic mutations.
Companion diagnostic testing is essential for determining whether a patient with melanoma is eligible for treatment with the combination therapy Tafinlar (dabrafenib) and Mekinist (trametinib). This therapy specifically targets melanomas with a mutation in the BRAF gene, particularly the BRAF V600E or V600K mutations. Companion diagnostics, such as the therascreen BRAF V600E RGQ PCR Kit, are used to detect these mutations. Only patients whose tumors harbor these mutations are candidates for Tafinlar + Mekinist, as the drugs work by inhibiting the abnormal BRAF protein and its signaling pathways, which are activated by these mutations.
Place a test order through your EMR system if enabled or order online by logging in or signing-up for a Foundation Medicine account. Orders can also be submitted via email or fax using our Test Requisition Form.
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