Trametinib was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in May 2013 for treating unresectable or metastatic melanoma.

• Unresectable or metastatic melanoma
• Non-small cell lung cancer in combination with Dabrafenib
• Advanced or metastatic thyroid cancer
• Metastatic solid tumours

Trametinib is typically administered orally as a tablet or capsule taken by mouth. The dose and frequency of it will depend on the specific type of cancer being treated and the patient's health status. For the treatment of melanoma, trametinib is usually taken once daily, either with or without food. It may be taken simultaneously as dabrafenib, another targeted therapy drug used in combination with trametinib for melanoma. In the management of non-small cell lung cancer, trametinib is usually taken once daily, at the same time as dabrafenib.

Trametinib, like many medications, can cause side effects in some patients. Common side effects include skin rash, diarrhoea, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Less common but potentially more serious side effects can include heart problems, lung problems, liver damage, and eye problems. Patients taking it should be monitored closely for any signs of these more serious side effects, which may include shortness of breath, chest pain, blurred vision, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. Patients must report any new or worsening symptoms to their healthcare provider immediately. 

Trametinib has several warnings and precautions that patients and healthcare providers should know. These include a risk of severe skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis, which can be life-threatening. Additionally, it can cause heart problems, including heart failure and decreased heart function, and lung problems, including interstitial lung disease and pneumonitis. Patients should be closely checked for any signs of respiratory symptoms, such as cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain, and any liver problems, including yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal pain, or dark urine. It can also cause eye problems, including retinal vein occlusion and uveitis, and patients should be monitored for any changes in vision or eye pain. It  should not be used during pregnancy. It  may also be excreted in human milk and could harm a nursing infant. It is important for patients taking trametinib to be aware of these potential risks and to report any new or worsening symptoms to their healthcare provider right away.

To ensure the safe use of trametinib, patients should inform their healthcare provider of any medical conditions they have, disclose all medications they are taking, avoid exposure to sunlight and tanning beds, and people should use sunscreen and wear protective clothing to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Breastfeeding should be avoided while taking trametinib and for at least four months after the final dose. Women of reproductive age should use effective contraception during the treatment and at least four months after the final dose.  It is important to follow these precautions to reduce the risk of potential side effects and to ensure that trametinib is effective in treating the intended condition.

If you have been prescribed trametinib or any other medication, it is important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and promptly report any side effects or concerns. It can cause serious side effects, so it is important to monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if you experience any concerning changes in your health. It is also important to avoid alcohol and to follow any safety recommendations provided by your healthcare provider. Remember to attend all scheduled appointments and follow-up visits with your healthcare provider to ensure your treatment is effective and any side effects are managed appropriately. Patients with liver or kidney disease should use it cautiously. During pregnancy or breastfeeding it is not recommended. Discussing all medical conditions and medications with a healthcare provider before starting treatment is important. With proper monitoring and management, this medication can be an effective treatment option for certain types of cancer.

1. Novartis Europharm Limited, Electronic medicines compendium (emc),[ Revised on Nov 2022] [Accessed on 28th March 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/5072/smpc
2. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on April 2018] [ Accessed on 28th March 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/204114s007lbl.pdf
3. Goodman & Gilman's The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 13th Edition, 2018, 1625-1626
4. Katzung and Trevor, Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 14th Edition, 2018, 579

The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.