Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.
Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.
The electronic medicines compendium (emc) no longer publishes a Summary of Product Characteristics for this product, which usually means it is no longer marketed in the UK. The patient leaflet below is kept for reference, but the product may not be available.
If you were prescribed this medicine, other products containing Binimetinib may still be available. Do not stop your treatment — ask your pharmacist or GP what to use instead.
for
Mektovi is an anti-cancer medicine that contains the active substance binimetinib. It is used in adults in combination with another medicine containing encorafenib to treat a type of skin cancer called melanoma or a type of lung cancer called non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), when the cancer has
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e Mektovi
Before starting treatment your doctor will check for BRAF mutation. As Mektovi is to be used in combination with encorafenib, read the encorafenib leaflet carefully as well as this leaflet. Do not take Mektovi if you are allergic to binimetinib or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6). Warnings and precautions Talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse before taking Mektovi about all of your medical conditions, particularly if you have any of the following:
• • • • • •
eye problems including glaucoma or increased pressure in your eyes muscle problems high blood pressure blood clots lung or breathing problems liver problems
Tell your doctor if you have ever had blockage in the vein carrying blood away from the eye (retinal vein occlusion), as Mektovi is not recommended in such cases. Tell your doctor if you have had a different type of cancer than melanoma or NSCLC, as binimetinib when taken with encorafenib may worsen certain other types of cancers. Tell your doctor, pharmacist or nurse immediately if you get the following while you are taking this medicine: •
Heart problems: Mektovi can make your heart work less well, or make existing heart problems worse. Your doctor will check that your heart is working properly before and during your treatment with this medicine. Talk to your doctor immediately if you have any symptoms of heart problems such as feeling dizzy, tired, lightheaded, if you have shortness of breath, if you feel like your heart is pounding, racing, beating irregularly or if you have swelling in the legs.
•
Bleeding problems: Mektovi may cause serious bleeding problems. Talk to your doctor immediately if you have any symptoms of bleeding problems such as coughing up of blood, blood clots, vomit containing blood or that looks like "coffee grounds", red or black stools that look like tar, passing blood in the urine, stomach (abdominal) pain, unusual vaginal bleeding. Also tell your doctor if you have headache, dizziness or weakness.
•
Eye problems: Mektovi can cause serious eye problems. Talk to your doctor immediately if you get blurred vision, loss of vision or other vision changes (such as coloured dots in your vision), halo (seeing blurred outline around objects). Your doctor will examine your eyes for any problems with your sight while you are taking Mektovi.
•
Muscle problems: Mektovi can cause breakdown of muscle (rhabdomyolysis). Your doctor will run blood tests to check for muscle problems before and during treatment. As a precaution, drink plenty of fluids during treatment. Talk to your doctor immediately if you get muscle pain, cramps, stiffness, spasm, dark urine.
•
High blood pressure: Mektovi can raise blood pressure. Your doctor or nurse will check your blood pressure before and during treatment with Mektovi. Talk to your doctor immediately if you get severe headache, feel dizzy, lightheaded or if your blood pressure measured on a home blood pressure device is much higher than usual.
•
Blood clots: Mektovi can cause blood clots in your arms or legs, and if a clot travels to your lungs it could lead to death. Talk to your doctor immediately if you get chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, trouble breathing, pain in your legs with or without swelling, swelling in your arms and legs, or a cool, pale arm or leg. If necessary, your doctor may interrupt your treatment or stop it altogether.
•
Lung or breathing problems: This medicine may cause lung or breathing problems including inflammation of the lungs (pneumonitis or interstitial lung disease); signs and symptoms can include: cough, shortness of breath or fatigue. If necessary, your doctor may interrupt your treatment or stop it altogether.
•
Skin changes: Mektovi, when taken with encorafenib, may cause other types of skin cancer such as cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Your doctor will check your skin before initiation 2
of treatment, every 2 months during treatment, and for up to 6 months after you stop taking these medicines to look for any new skin cancer. Tell your doctor immediately if you detect any skin changes during and after the treatment including: new wart, skin sore or reddish bump that bleeds or does not heal, or a change in size or colour of a mole. Additionally, your doctor needs to check for squamous cell carcinoma on your head, neck, mouth and lymph glands, and you will have CT scans regularly. This is a precaution in case a squamous cell carcinoma develops inside your body. Genital examinations (for women) and anal examinations are also recommended before the initiation and at the end of your treatment. •
Liver problems: Mektovi can cause abnormal blood tests related to your liver (raised levels of liver enzymes). Your doctor will run blood tests to check your liver before and during treatment.
If you experience the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately as this can be a lifethreatening condition: nausea, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, muscular cramps, seizures, clouding of urine, decrease in urine output and tiredness. These may be caused by a group of metabolic complications that can occur during treatment of cancer that are caused by the breakdown products of dying cancer cells (Tumour lysis syndrome (TLS)) and can lead to changes in kidney function (see also section 4: Possible side effects). Children and adolescents Mektovi is not recommended for children and adolescents under 18 years of age. This medicine has not been studied in this age group. Other medicines and Mektovi Tell your doctor, pharmacist or nurse if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines. Some medicines may affect how Mektovi works or make it more likely that you will have side effects. In particular, tell your doctor if you are taking anything in this list or any other medicines:
machines (see section 4), while taking Mektovi. Talk to your doctor if you are not sure you can drive. Mektovi contains lactose If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine. This medicine contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per dosage unit, that is to say essentially 'sodium-free'.
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How to take Mektovi
How much to take Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure. The recommended dose of Mektovi is 45 mg (three 15 mg tablets or one 45 mg tablet) twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart, corresponding to a total daily dose of 90 mg. You will also receive treatment with another medicine, encorafenib. If you get serious side effects (such as heart, eye or skin problems) your doctor may lower the dose or stop treatment temporarily or permanently.
Mektovi Swallow the tablets whole with water. Mektovi can be taken with food or between meals. Mektovi 15 mg If you cannot swallow the tablets whole, you may disperse Mektovi 15 mg tablets in a small glass (approximately 10 mL, roughly 2 teaspoons) of either water, orange juice or apple juice and take immediately. The glass should be rinsed with a further 10 mL (roughly 2 teaspoons) of water, orange juice or apple juice, and the content drunk immediately. If not used within 30 minutes, discard the mixture and prepare a new one. If you are sick If you vomit at any time after taking Mektovi, do not take an additional dose. Take the next dose as scheduled. If you take more Mektovi than you should If you take more tablets than you should, contact your doctor, pharmacist or nurse straightaway. If possible, show them this leaflet and the medicine package. If you forget to take Mektovi If you miss a dose of Mektovi, take it as soon as you remember. However, if the missed dose is more than 6 hours late, skip that dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Then continue taking your tablets at regular times as usual. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose. If you stop taking Mektovi It is important to take Mektovi for as long as your doctor prescribes it. Do not stop taking this medicine unless your doctor tells you to. If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor, pharmacist or nurse.
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4.
Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Serious side effects Mektovi may cause serious side effects. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of the following serious side effects, either for the first time or if they get worse (see also section 2). Heart problems: Mektovi can affect how well your heart works (left ventricular ejection fraction decrease); signs and symptoms can include:
Other side effects when Mektovi and encorafenib are taken together Besides the serious side effects mentioned above, people taking Mektovi and encorafenib together may also get the following side effects. Very common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people) reduced red blood cell count (anaemia) problem with the nerves resulting in pain, loss of sensation or tingling in hands and feet headache dizziness bleeding at various sites in the body problems with your vision (visual impairment) stomach pain diarrhoea being sick (vomiting) feeling sick (nausea) constipation itching dry skin hair loss or thinning (alopecia) skin rash of various types thickening of the outer layers of the skin joint pain (arthralgia) muscle disorders back pain pain in the extremities fever swelling of the hands or feet (peripheral oedema), localised swelling fatigue abnormal blood test results for liver function abnormal blood test result related to blood creatine kinase, indicating damage to heart and muscle Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people) some types of skin tumours such as skin papilloma allergic reaction that may include swelling of the face and difficulty breathing changes in the way things taste inflammation of the eye (uveitis) inflammation of the colon (colitis) redness, chapping or cracking of the skin inflammation of the fatty layer under the skin, symptoms include tender skin nodules skin rash with a flat discoloured area or raised bumps like acne (dermatitis acneiform) redness, skin peeling or blisters on hand and feet (palmar plantar erythrodysesthesia or hand and foot syndrome) kidney failure abnormal kidney test results (creatinine elevations) abnormal blood test results for liver function (blood alkaline phosphatase) abnormal blood test results for pancreas function (amylase, lipase) increased skin sensitivity to sunlight Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people) some types of skin tumours such as basal cell carcinoma weakness and paralysis of face muscles inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) causing severe abdominal pain
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Reporting of side effects If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via: Yellow Card Scheme Website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.
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Mektovi
Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the blister and the carton after EXP. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month. This medicine does not require any special storage conditions. Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment.
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What Mektovi contains The active substance is binimetinib. Mektovi 15 mg film-coated tablet: each film-coated tablet contains 15 mg of binimetinib. Mektovi 45 mg film-coated tablet: each film-coated tablet contains 45 mg of binimetinib. The other ingredients are: • Tablet core: lactose monohydrate, cellulose microcrystalline (E460i), silica colloidal anhydrous (E551), croscarmellose sodium (E468) and magnesium stearate (E470b). See section 2 "Mektovi contains lactose". • Tablet film-coat: Mektovi 15 mg film-coated tablet: poly(vinyl alcohol) (E1203), macrogol 3350 (E1521), titanium dioxide (E171), talc (E533b), iron oxide yellow (E172) and iron oxide black (E172). Mektovi 45 mg film-coated tablet: poly(vinyl alcohol) (E1203), macrogol 4000 (E1521), calcium carbonate (E170), talc (E533b). What Mektovi looks like and contents of the pack Mektovi 15 mg film-coated tablets The film-coated tablets are yellow/dark yellow, unscored biconvex, oval film-coated tablets debossed with "A" on one side and "15" on the other side. Mektovi 15 mg film-coated tablets are available in packs of 84 tablets (7 blisters of 12 tablets each) or 168 tablets (14 blisters of 12 tablets each). Not all pack sizes may be marketed. Mektovi 45 mg film-coated tablets The film-coated tablets are white to off-white, unscored biconvex, ovaloid film-coated tablets debossed with "45" on one side. Mektovi 45 mg film-coated tablets are available in packs of 28 tablets (2 blisters of 14 tablets each) or 56 tablets (4 blisters of 14 tablets each). Not all pack sizes may be marketed.
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Marketing Authorisation Holder Pierre Fabre Limited 250 Longwater Avenue, Green Park, Reading RG2 6GP, United Kingdom Manufacturer PIERRE FABRE MEDICAMENT PRODUCTION Site Progipharm, Rue du Lycée 45500 GIEN France This leaflet was last revised in 09/2025
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Mektovi 45 mg film-coated tablets comes as tablet containing 45mg. Always follow the dose your doctor or pharmacist has given you, and read the leaflet that comes with the medicine.
The active substance in Mektovi 45 mg film-coated tablets is binimetinib.
This leaflet reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for Mektovi 45 mg film-coated tablets, as published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). The version printed inside your medicine’s packaging is the one that applies to you.
Whether a medicine is available over the counter or on prescription only depends on its licence. Check the leaflet, or ask your pharmacist — they can tell you straight away.
The text above reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for this medicine, restructured for easier reading.
Melanoma
Binimetinib in combination with encorafenib is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma with a BRAF V600 mutation.
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
Binimetinib in combination with encorafenib is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer with a BRAF V600E mutation.
Binimetinib treatment in combination with encorafenib should be initiated and supervised under the responsibility of a physician experienced in the use of anticancer medicinal products.
BRAF mutation testing
Before taking binimetinib in combination with encorafenib, patients must have confirmation of BRAF V600E mutation assessed by a CE-marked in vitro diagnostic (IVD) medical device with the corresponding intended purpose. If the CE-marked IVD is not available, an alternative validated test should be used.
The efficacy and safety of binimetinib in combination with encorafenib have been established only in patients with melanoma tumours expressing BRAF V600E and V600K mutations, or NSCLC expressing a BRAF V600E mutation. Binimetinib in combination with encorafenib should not be used in patients with wild type BRAF malignant melanoma or wild-type BRAF NSCLC.
Posology
The recommended dose of binimetinib is 45 mg twice daily approximately 12 hours apart, corresponding to a total daily dose of 90 mg.
Dose modification
The management of adverse reactions may require dose reduction, temporary interruption or treatment discontinuation (see below, Table 1 and Table 2).
For patients receiving 45 mg binimetinib twice daily, the recommended reduced dose of binimetinib is 30 mg twice daily. Dose reduction below 30 mg twice daily is not recommended. Therapy should be discontinued if the patient is not able to tolerate 30 mg orally twice daily.
If the adverse reaction that resulted in a dose reduction is under effective management, dose
re-escalation to 45 mg twice daily may be considered. Dose re-escalation to 45 mg twice daily is not recommended if the dose reduction is due to left ventricular dysfunction (LVD) or any Grade 4 toxicity.
Dose modifications recommendations in case of adverse reactions are presented below and in Tables 1 and 2.
If treatment-related toxicities occur when binimetinib is used in combination with encorafenib, then both treatments should be simultaneously dose reduced, interrupted or discontinued. Exceptions where dose reductions are necessary for encorafenib only (adverse reactions primarily related to encorafenib) are: palmar-plantar erythrodysaesthesia syndrome (PPES), uveitis including iritis and iridocyclitis and QTc prolongation.
If one of these toxicities occurs, see section 4.2 of encorafenib Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) for dose modification instructions for encorafenib.
If binimetinib is temporarily interrupted, encorafenib should be reduced to 300 mg once daily during the time of binimetinib dose interruption (see Tables 1 and 2) as encorafenib is not well-tolerated at the dose of 450 mg as a single agent. If binimetinib is permanently discontinued, encorafenib should be discontinued.
If encorafenib is temporarily interrupted (see section 4.2 of encorafenib SmPC), binimetinib should be interrupted. If encorafenib is permanently discontinued, then binimetinib should be discontinued.
For information on the posology and recommended dose modifications of encorafenib, see section 4.2 of encorafenib SmPC.
Table 1: Recommended dose modifications for binimetinib (used in combination with encorafenib) for selected adverse reaction
Severity of adverse reactiona
Binimetinib
Cutaneous reactions
• Grade2
Binimetinib should be maintained.
If rash worsens or does not improve within 2 weeks with treatment, binimetinib should be withheld until improved to Grade 0 or 1 and then resumed at the same dose if first occurrence or resumed at a reduced dose if recurrent Grade2.
• Grade 3
Binimetinib should be withheld until improved to Grade 0 or 1 and resumed at the same dose if first occurrence or resumed at a reduced dose if recurrent Grade 3.
• Grade 4
Binimetinib should be permanently discontinued.
Ocular events
• Symptomatic retinal pigment epithelial detachments (RPED) (Grade 2 or 3)
Binimetinib should be withheld for up to 2 weeks and ophthalmic monitoring should be repeated including visual acuity assessment.
• If improved to Grade 0 or 1, binimetinib should be resumed at same dose.
• If improved to Grade 2, binimetinib should be resumed at a lower dose.
• If not improved to Grade 2, binimetinib should be permanently discontinued.
• Symptomatic RPED (Grade 4) associated with reduced visual acuity (Grade 4)
Binimetinib should be permanently discontinued.
• Retinal vein occlusion (RVO)
Binimetinib should be permanently discontinued.
Cardiac events
• Grade 2 Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) decrease or asymptomatic, absolute decrease in LVEF of greater than 10 % from baseline that is below lower limit of normal (LLN)
LVEF should be evaluated every 2 weeks.
• If asymptomatic:
Binimetinib should be withheld for up to 4 weeks. Binimetinib should be resumed at a reduced dose if all of the following are present within 4 weeks:
o LVEF is at or above the LLN
o Absolute decrease from baseline is 10 % or less.
• If the LVEF does not recover within 4 weeks, binimetinib should be permanently discontinued.
• Grade 3 or 4 LVEF decrease or symptomatic left ventricular dysfunction (LVD)
Binimetinib should be permanently discontinued.
LVEF should be evaluated every 2 weeks until recovery.
Rhabdomyolysis/Creatine phosphokinase (CK) elevation
• Grade 3 (CK > 5 – 10x upper limit of normal (ULN)) asymptomatic
Binimetinib dose should be maintained and it should be ensured that patient is adequately hydrated.
• Grade 4 (CK > 10x ULN) asymptomatic
Binimetinib should be withheld until improved to
Grade 0 or 1. It should be ensured that patient has adequate hydration.
• Grade 3 or grade 4 (CK > 5x ULN) with muscle symptoms or renal impairment
Binimetinib should be withheld until improved to Grade 0 or 1.
• If resolved within 4 weeks, binimetinib should be resumed at a reduced dose, or
• Binimetinib should be permanently discontinued.
Venous thromboembolism (VTE)
• Uncomplicated deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) ≤ Grade 3
Binimetinib should be withheld.
• If improved to Grade 0 or 1, binimetinib should be resumed at a reduced dose, or
• If not improved, binimetinib should be permanently discontinued.
• Grade 4 PE
Binimetinib should be permanently discontinued.
Liver laboratory abnormalities
• Grade 2 aspartate aminotransferase (AST) or alanine aminotransferase (ALT) > 3x – ≤ 5x upper limit of normal (ULN)
Binimetinib dose should be maintained.
If no improvement within 2 weeks, binimetinib should be withheld until improved to Grade 0 or 1 or to baseline levels, and then resumed at the same dose.
• First occurrence of Grade 3 (AST or ALT > 5x ULN and blood bilirubin > 2x ULN)
Binimetinib should be withheld for up to 4 weeks.
• If improved to Grade 0 or 1 or baseline level, binimetinib should be resumed at reduced dose, or
• If not improved, binimetinib should be permanently discontinued.
• First occurrence of Grade 4 (AST or ALT > 20 ULN)
Binimetinib should be withheld for up to 4 weeks.
• If improved to Grade 0 or 1 or baseline levels, binimetinib should be resumed at a reduced dose level, or
• If not improved, binimetinib should be permanently discontinued.
Or, binimetinib should be permanently discontinued.
• Recurrent Grade 3 (AST or ALT > 5x ULN and blood bilirubin > 2x ULN)
It should be considered to permanently discontinue binimetinib.
• Recurrent Grade 4 (AST or ALT > 20 ULN)
Binimetinib should be permanently discontinued.
Interstitial lung disease (ILD)/pneumonitis
• Grade 2
Binimetinib should be withheld for up to 4 weeks.
• If improved to Grade 0 or 1, binimetinib should be resumed at reduced dose, or
• If not resolved within 4 weeks, binimetinib should be permanently discontinued.
• Grade 3 or Grade 4
Binimetinib should be permanently discontinued.
a National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (NCI CTCAE) version 4.03
Table 2: Recommended dose modifications for binimetinib (used in combination with encorafenib) for other adverse reactions
Severity of adverse reaction
Binimetinib
• Recurrent or intolerable Grade 2 adverse reactions
• First occurrence of Grade 3 adverse reactions
Binimetinib should be withheld for up to 4 weeks.
• If improved to Grade 0 or 1 or baseline level, binimetinib should be resumed at reduced dose, or
• If not improved, binimetinib should be permanently discontinued.
• First occurrence of Grade 4 adverse reactions
Binimetinib should be withheld for up to 4 weeks.
• If improved to Grade 0 or 1 or baseline levels, binimetinib should be resumed at a reduced dose level,
or
• If not improved, binimetinib should be permanently discontinued.
Or, binimetinib should be permanently discontinued.
• Recurrent Grade 3 adverse reactions
It should be considered to permanently discontinue binimetinib.
• Recurrent Grade 4 adverse reactions
Binimetinib should be permanently discontinued.
Duration of treatment
Treatment should continue until the patient no longer derives benefit or the development of unacceptable toxicity.
Missed doses
If a dose of binimetinib is missed, it should not be taken if it is less than 6 hours until the next dose is due.
Vomiting
In case of vomiting after administration of binimetinib, the patient should not re-take the dose and should take the next scheduled dose.
Special populations
Elderly patients
No dose adjustment is required for patients aged 65 years and older (see section 5.2).
Hepatic impairment
No dose adjustment is required in patients with mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh A).
As encorafenib is not recommended in patients with moderate (Child Pugh B) or severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C), administration of binimetinib is not recommended in these patients. (see section 4.2 of encorafenib SmPC).
Renal impairment
No dose adjustment is recommended for patients with renal impairment (see section 5.2).
Paediatric population
The safety and efficacy of binimetinib in children and adolescents have not yet been established. No data are available.
Method of administration
Mektovi is for oral use.
The tablets are to be swallowed whole with water. They may be taken with or without food.
Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1.
Binimetinib is to be given in combination with encorafenib. For additional information on warnings and precautions associated with encorafenib treatment, see section 4.4 of encorafenib SmPC.
Binimetinib in combination with encorafenib in patients who have progressed on a BRAF inhibitor
There are limited data for use of the combination of binimetinib with encorafenib in patients who have progressed on a prior BRAF inhibitor given for the treatment of unresectable or metastatic melanoma with BRAF V600 mutation. These data show that the efficacy of the combination would be lower in these patients.
Binimetinib in combination with encorafenib in patients with brain metastases
There are limited efficacy data with the combination of binimetinib and encorafenib in patients with a BRAF V600 mutant melanoma or BRAF V600E mutant NSCLC which have metastasised to the brain (see section 5.1).
Left ventricular dysfunction (LVD)
LVD defined as symptomatic or asymptomatic decreases in ejection fraction can occur when binimetinib is administered.
It is recommended that LVEF is assessed by echocardiogram or multi-gated acquisition (MUGA) scan before initiation of binimetinib, 1 month after initiation, and then at approximately 3-month intervals or more frequently as clinically indicated, while on treatment. The occurrence of LVEF decrease can be managed with treatment interruption, dose reduction or with treatment discontinuation (see section 4.2).
The safety of binimetinib in combination with encorafenib has not been established in patients with a baseline LVEF that is either below 50 % or below the institutional LLN. Therefore, in these patients, binimetinib should be used with caution and for any symptomatic left ventricular dysfunction,
Grade 3-4 LVEF, or absolute decrease of LVEF from baseline of ≥ 10 %, binimetinib should be discontinued and LVEF should be evaluated every 2 weeks until recovery.
Haemorrhage
Haemorrhages, including major haemorrhagic events, can occur when binimetinib is administered (see section 4.8). The risk of haemorrhage may be increased with concomitant use of anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapy. The occurrence of Grade ≥ 3 haemorrhagic events should be managed with dose interruption, reduction or treatment discontinuation (see Table 2 in section 4.2) and as clinically indicated.
Ocular toxicities
Ocular toxicities including RPED and RVO can occur when binimetinib is administered. Uveitis including iridocyclitis and iritis have been reported in patients treated with binimetinib in combination with encorafenib (see section 4.8).
Binimetinib is not recommended in patients with a history of RVO. The safety of binimetinib has not been established in patients with predisposing factors for RVO including uncontrolled glaucoma, ocular hypertension, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus or a history of hyperviscosity or hypercoagulability syndromes. Therefore, binimetinib should be used with caution in these patients.
Patients should be assessed at each visit for symptoms of new or worsening visual disturbances. If symptoms of new or worsening visual disturbances including diminished central vision, blurred vision or loss of vision are identified, a prompt ophthalmologic examination is recommended.
The occurrence of symptomatic RPED can be managed with treatment interruption, dose reduction or with treatment discontinuation (see Table 1 in section 4.2).
Binimetinib should be permanently discontinued with the occurrence of RVO (see Table 1 in section 4.2).
If during treatment patient develops uveitis, see section 4.2 of encorafenib SmPC for guidance.
CK elevation and rhabdomyolysis
Asymptomatic CK elevations are seen in patients treated with binimetinib (see section 4.8), and, rhabdomyolysis was uncommonly reported. Special attention should be paid to patients with neuromuscular conditions associated with CK elevation and rhabdomyolysis.
CK and creatinine levels should be monitored monthly during the first 6 months of treatment and as clinically indicated. The patient should be advised to maintain an adequate fluid intake during treatment. Depending on the severity of symptoms, degree of CK elevation or creatinine elevation, dose reduction, dose interruption or permanent discontinuation of binimetinib may be required (see Table 1 in section 4.2).
Hypertension
Hypertension, or worsening of pre-existing hypertension, can occur with the use of binimetinib. Blood pressure should be measured at baseline and monitored during treatment, with control of hypertension by standard therapy as appropriate. In case of severe hypertension, temporary interruption of binimetinib is recommended until hypertension is controlled (see Table 2 in section 4.2).
Venous thromboembolism (VTE)
VTE can occur when binimetinib is administered (see section 4.8). Binimetinib should be used with caution in patients who are at risk for, or who have a history of VTE.
If during treatment patient develops VTE or pulmonary embolism, it should be managed with dose interruption, reduction or treatment discontinuation (see Table 1 in section 4.2).
Pneumonitis/Interstitial lung disease
Pneumonitis/ILD can occur with binimetinib. Treatment with binimetinib should be withheld in patients with suspected pneumonitis or ILD, including patients presenting new or progressive pulmonary symptoms or findings such as cough, dyspnoea, hypoxia, reticular opacities or pulmonary infiltrates (see Table 1 in section 4.2). Binimetinib should be permanently discontinued in patients diagnosed with treatment related pneumonitis or ILD.
New primary malignancies
New primary malignancies, cutaneous and non-cutaneous, have been observed in patients treated with BRAF inhibitors and can occur when binimetinib is administered in combination with encorafenib (see section 4.8).
Cutaneous malignancies
Cutaneous malignancies such as cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cuSCC) including kerathoacanthoma has been observed in patients treated with binimetinib when used in combination with encorafenib.
Dermatologic evaluations should be performed prior to initiation of therapy with binimetinib in combination with encorafenib, every 2 months while on therapy and for up to 6 months following discontinuation of the combination. Suspicious skin lesions should be managed with dermatological excision and dermatopathologic evaluation. Patients should be instructed to immediately inform their physicians if new skin lesions develop. Binimetinib and encorafenib should be continued without any dose modifications.
Non-cutaneous malignancies
Based on its mechanism of action, encorafenib may promote malignancies associated with activation of RAS through mutation or other mechanisms. Patients receiving binimetinib in combination with encorafenib should undergo a head and neck examination, chest/abdomen computerised tomography (CT) scan, anal and pelvic examinations (for women) and complete blood cell counts prior to initiation, during and at the end of treatment as clinically appropriate.
Permanent discontinuation of binimetinib and encorafenib should be considered in patients who develops RAS mutation-positive non-cutaneous malignancies. Benefits and risks should be carefully considered before administering binimetinib in combination with encorafenib to patients with a prior or concurrent cancer associated with RAS mutation.
Tumour lysis syndrome (TLS)
The occurrence of TLS, which may be fatal, has been associated with the use of binimetinib in association with encorafenib (see section 4.8). Risk factors for TLS include high tumour burden, pre-existing chronic renal insufficiency, oliguria, dehydration, hypotension and acidic urine. These patients should be monitored closely and treated promptly as clinically indicated, and prophylactic hydration should be considered.
Liver laboratory abnormalities
Liver laboratory abnormalities including AST and ALT elevations can occur with binimetinib (see section 4.8). Liver laboratory values should be monitored before initiation of binimetinib and encorafenib and at least monthly during the 6 first months of treatment, and then as clinically indicated. Liver laboratory abnormalities should be managed with dose interruption, reduction or treatment discontinuation (see Table 1 in section 4.2).
Hepatic impairment
Liver metabolism mainly via glucuronidation is the primary route of elimination of binimetinib (see section 5.2). As encorafenib is not recommended in patients with moderate (Child Pugh B) and severe hepatic impairment (Child Pugh C), administration of binimetinib is not recommended in these patients (see sections 4.2 and 5.2).
Lactose intolerance
Mektovi contains lactose. Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, total lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not take this medicinal product.
Effects of other medicinal products on binimetinib
Binimetinib is primarily metabolised through UGT1A1 mediated glucuronidation. The extent of drug interactions mediated by UGT1A1 is unlikely to be clinically relevant (see section 5.2); however, as this has not been evaluated in a formal clinical study, UGT1A1 inducers (such as rifampicin and phenobarbital) and inhibitors (such as indinavir, atazanavir, sorafenib) should be co-administered with caution.
While encorafenib is a relatively potent reversible inhibitor of UGT1A1, no differences in binimetinib exposure have been observed clinically when binimetinib is co-administered with encorafenib (see section 5.2).
Inducers of CYP1A2 enzymes (such as carbamazepine and rifampicin) and inducers of Pgp transport (such as Saint John's wort or phenytoin) may decrease binimetinib exposure, which could result in a decrease of efficacy.
Effects of binimetinib on other medicinal products
Binimetinib is a potential inducer of CYP1A2, and caution should be taken when it is used with sensitive substrates (such as duloxetine or theophylline).
Binimetinib is a weak inhibitor of OAT3, and caution should be taken when it is used with sensitive substrates (such as pravastatin or ciprofloxacin).
Women of childbearing potential/Contraception in females
Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception during treatment with binimetinib and for at least 1 month following the last dose.
Pregnancy
There are no data from the use of binimetinb in pregnant women. Studies in animals have shown reproductive toxicity (see section 5.3). Binimetinib is not recommended during pregnancy and in women of childbearing potential not using contraception. If binimetinib is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking binimetinib, the patient should be informed of the potential hazard to the foetus.
Breast-feeding
It is unknown whether binimetinib or its metabolite are excreted in human milk. A risk to the breastfed newborns/infants cannot be excluded. A decision must be made whether to discontinue breast-feeding or to discontinue Mektovi therapy taking into account the benefit of breast-feeding for the child and the benefit of therapy for the mother.
Fertility
There are no data on the effect on fertility in humans for binimetinib.
Binimetinib has minor influence on the ability to drive or use machines. Visual disturbances have been reported in patients treated with binimetinib during clinical studies. Patients should be advised not to drive or use machines if they experience visual disturbances or any other adverse reaction that may affect their ability to drive and use machines (see sections 4.4 and 4.8).
Summary of safety profile
The safety of binimetinib (45 mg orally twice daily) in combination with encorafenib (450 mg orally once daily) has been evaluated in the integrated safety population (ISP) of 372 patients including patients with BRAF V600 mutant unresectable or metastatic melanoma and BRAF V600E mutant advanced NSCLC (hereafter referred to as Combo 450 ISP). In Combo 450 ISP, 274 patients received the combination for the treatment of BRAF V600 mutant unresectable or metastatic melanoma (in two Phase II studies (CMEK162X2110 and CLGX818X2109) and one Phase III study (CMEK162B2301, Part 1), and 98 received the combination for the treatment of BRAF V600E mutant advanced NSCLC (in one non-randomized Phase II study (ARRAY-818-202)) (see section 5.1).
The most common adverse reactions (≥ 25 %) occurring in patients treated with binimetinib administered with encorafenib were fatigue, nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal pain, myopathy/muscular disorders and arthralgia.
The safety of encorafenib (300 mg orally once daily) in combination with binimetinib (45 mg orally twice daily) was evaluated in 257 patients with BRAF V600 mutant unresectable or metastatic melanoma (hereafter referred to as the Combo 300 population), based on the Phase III study (CMEK162B2301, Part 2). The most common adverse reactions (≥25%) occurring in patients treated with encorafenib 300 mg administered with binimetinib were fatigue, nausea and diarrhoea.
Tabulated list of adverse reactions
Adverse reactions are listed below by MedDRA body system organ class and the following frequency convention: very common (≥1/10), common (≥1/100 to <1/10), uncommon (≥1/1 000 to <1/100), rare (≥1/10 000 to <1/1 000), very rare (<1/10 000) and not known (cannot be estimated from the available data).
Within each frequency grouping, adverse reactions are presented in order of decreasing seriousness.
Table 3: Adverse reactions occurring in patients receiving binimetinib in combination with encorafenib at the recommended dose (n = 372)
System Organ Class
Adverse reaction
Frequency (All grades)
Neoplasms benign, malignant and unspecified
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinomaa
Common
Skin papilloma*
Common
Basal cell carcinoma*
Uncommon
Blood and lymphatic system disorders
Anaemia
Very common
Immune system disorders
Hypersensitivityb
Common
Metabolism and nutrition disorders
Tumour lysis syndrome
Not known
Nervous system disorders
Neuropathy peripheral*
Very common
Dizziness*
Very common
Headache*
Very common
Dysgeusia
Common
Facial paresisc
Uncommon
Eye disorders
Visual impairment*
Very common
RPED*
Very common
Uveitis*
Common
Cardiac disorders
Left ventricular dysfunctiond
Common
Vascular disorders
Haemorrhagee
Very common
Hypertension*
Very common
Venous thromboembolismf
Common
Gastrointestinal disorders
Abdominal pain*
Very common
Diarrhoea*
Very common
Vomiting*
Very common
Nausea
Very common
Constipation
Very common
Colitisg
Common
Pancreatitis*
Uncommon
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders
Hyperkeratosis *
Very common
Rash *
Very common
Dry skin*
Very common
Pruritus*
Very common
Alopecia*
Very common
Photosensitivity*
Common
Dermatitis acneiform*
Common
Palmar-plantar erythrodysaesthesia syndrome (PPES)
Common
Erythema*
Common
Panniculitis*
Common
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders
Arthralgia*
Very common
Myopathy/Muscular disorderh
Very common
Back pain*
Very common
Pain in extremity
Very common
Rhabdomyolysis
Uncommon
Renal and urinary
disorders
Renal failure*
Common
General disorders and administration site conditions
Pyrexia*
Very common
Peripheral oedema i
Very common
Fatigue*
Very common
Investigations
Blood creatine phosphokinase increased
Very Common
Transaminase increased*
Very Common
Gamma-glutamyl transferase increased*
Very Common
Blood creatinine increased*
Common
Blood alkaline phosphatase increased
Common
Amylase increased
Common
Lipase increased
Common
*composite terms which included more than one preferred term
a includes keratoacanthoma, squamous cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma of skin
b includes, but not limited to, angioedema, drug hypersensitivity, hypersensitivity, hypersensitivity vasculitis, and urticaria
c includes facial nerve disorder, facial paralysis, facial paresis, Bell's palsy
d includes left ventricular dysfunction, ejection fraction decreased, cardiac failure and ejection fraction abnormal
e includes haemorrhage at various sites including, but not limited to, cerebral haemorrhage, intracranial haemorrhage, vaginal haemorrhage, heavy menstrual bleeding, intermenstrual bleeding, haematochezia, haemoptysis, haemothorax, gastrointestinal haemorrhage and haematuria
f includes, but not limited to, pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis, embolism, thrombophlebitis, thrombophlebitis superficial, thrombosis, phlebitis, superior vena cava syndrome, mesenteric vein thrombosis and vena cava thrombosis
g includes colitis, colitis ulcerative, enterocolitis and proctitis
h includes myalgia, muscular weakness, muscle spasm, muscle injury, myopathy, myositis
i includes, but not limited to, fluid retention, peripheral oedema, localised oedema, generalised oedema and swelling
When encorafenib was used at a dose of 300 mg once daily in combination with binimetinib 45 mg twice daily (Combo 300) in study CMEK162B2301-Part 2, the frequency category was lower compared to the pooled Combo 450 population for the following adverse reactions: anaemia, peripheral neuropathy, haemorrhage, hypertension, pruritus (common) and colitis, increased amylase and increased lipase (uncommon).
Description of selected adverse reactions
Cutaneous malignancies
CuSCC was reported when binimetinib was used in combination with encorafenib (see section 4.8 of encorafenib SmPC).
Ocular events
In the Combo 450 ISP, RPED was reported in 22.3% (83/372) of patients. RPED was Grade 1 (asymptomatic) in 15.6% (58/372) of patients, Grade 2 in 5.1% (19/372) of patients and Grade 3 in 1.6 % (6/372) of patients. Most events were reported as retinopathy, retinal detachment, subretinal fluid, macular oedema, and central serous chorioretinopathy and led to dose interruptions or dose modifications in 3.8% (14/372) of patients. The median time to onset of the first event of RPED (all grades) was 1.4 months (range 0.00 to 17.5 months).
Visual impairment, including vision blurred and reduced visual acuity, occurred in 23.1% (86/372) of patients. Visual impairment was generally reversible.
Uveitis was also reported when binimetinib was used in combination with encorafenib (see section 4.8 of encorafenib SmPC).
In Study CMEK162B2301-Part 2, in the Combo 300 arm, RPED was observed in 12.5% (32/257) of patients with 0.4% (1/257) Grade 4 event.
Left ventricular dysfunction
In the Combo 450 ISP, LVD was reported in 9.4 % (35/372) of patients. Grade 3 events occurred in 1.3 % (5/372) of patients. LVD led to treatment discontinuation in 0.8% (3/372) of patients and led to dose interruptions or dose reductions in 6.2 % (23/372) of patients.
The median time to first occurrence of LVD (any grade) was 5.2 months (range 0.0 to 25.7 months) in patients who developed an LVEF below 50 %. The mean LVEF value dropped by 5.3 % in the Combo 450 ISP, from a mean of 63.3 % at baseline to 58.0 %. LVD was generally reversible following dose reduction or dose interruption.
Haemorrhage
Haemorrhagic events were observed in 16.7% (62/372) of patients in the Combo 450 ISP. Most events were Grade 1 or 2: 13.2% (49/372) and 3.5% (13/372) were ≥Grade 3. Few patients required dose interruptions or dose reductions (2.4% or 9/372). Haemorrhagic events led to discontinuation of treatment in 0.8 % (3/372) of patients. The most frequent haemorrhagic events were haematuria in 2.7 % (10/372) of patients, haematochezia in 2.7% (10/372) and rectal haemorrhage in 2.2% (8/372) of patients. Fatal gastric ulcer haemorrhage with multiple organ failure as a concurrent cause of death, occurred in one patient. Cerebral haemorrhage/intracranial haemorrhage occurred in 1.6% (6/372) of patients with fatal outcome in 4 patients.
In Study CMEK162B2301-Part 2, in the Combo 300 arm, haemorrhagic events were observed in 6.6% (17/257) of patients and were Grade 3-4 in 1.6% (4/257) of patients.
Hypertension
New onset elevated blood pressure or worsening of pre-existing hypertension were reported in 11.0 % (41/372) of patients treated with the Combo 450 ISP. Hypertension events were reported as Grade 3 in 5.1 % (19/372) of patients, including hypertensive crisis (0.3 % (1/372). Hypertension led to dose interruption or adjustment in 2.2 % (8/372) of patients. Hypertensive adverse reactions required additional therapy in 7.5 % (28/372) of patients.
Venous thromboembolism
In the Combo 450 ISP, VTE occurred in 4.8% (18/372) of patients, including 1.9% (7/372) of patients who developed pulmonary embolism. VTE was reported as Grade 1 or 2 in 4.0 % (15/372) of patients and Grade 3 or 4 in 0.8 % (3/372) of patients. VTE led to dose interruptions or dose modifications in 1.1% (4/372) patients and to additional therapy in 4.6% (17/372) of patients.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis was reported when binimetinib was used in combination with encorafenib (see section 4.8 of encorafenib SmPC).
Dermatologic reactions
Dermatologic reactions may occur when binimetinib is used in combination with encorafenib.
Rash
In the Combo 450 ISP, rash occurred in 20.4% (76/372) of patients. Most events were mild, with Grade 3 or 4 events reported in 1.1% (4/372) of patients. Rash led to treatment discontinuation in 0.8% (3/372) of patients and to dose interruption or dose modification in 2.4% (9/372) of patients.
Dermatitis acneiform
In the Combo 450 ISP, dermatitis acneiform occurred in 4.0% (15/372) of patients. Dermatitis acneiform was reported as Grade 1 or 2 in 3.8% (14/372) of patients and Grade 3 in 0.3% (1/372) of patients. No event led to treatment discontinuation. Dose modification was reported in 0.5 % (2/372) of patients.
Palmar-plantar erythrodysaesthesia syndrome
PPES can occur when binimetinib is used in combination with encorafenib (see section 4.8 of encorafenib SmPC).
Photosensitivity
In the Combo 450 ISP, photosensitivity was observed in 4.3% (16/372) of patients. Most events were Grade 1-2, with Grade 3 reported in 0.3% (1/372) of patients and no event led to discontinuation. Dose interruption or dose modification was reported in 0.3% (1/372) of patients.
Facial paresis
Facial paresis was reported when binimetinib was used in combination with encorafenib (see section 4.8 of encorafenib SmPC).
CK elevation/rhabdomyolysis
In the Combo 450 ISP, mostly mild asymptomatic blood CK elevation was reported in 23.9% (89/372) of patients. The incidence of Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions was 5.1% (19/372). The median time to onset of the first event was 2.8 months (range: 0.5 to 26 months).
Rhabdomyolysis was reported in 0.3% (1/372) of patients treated with encorafenib in combination with binimetinib. In this patient, rhabdomyolysis was observed with concomitant symptomatic Grade 4 CK elevation.
Renal dysfunction
Blood creatinine elevation and renal failure occurred when binimetinib was used in combination with encorafenib (see section 4.8 of encorafenib SmPC).
Liver laboratory abnormalities
The incidences of liver laboratory abnormalities reported in the Combo 450 ISP are listed below:
• Increased transaminases: 16.4% (61/372) overall – 6.5% (24/372) Grade 3
• Increased GGT: 11.3% (42/372) overall – 6.7% (25/372) Grade 3-4
In Study CMEK162B2301-Part 2, in the Combo 300 arm, the incidences of liver laboratory abnormalities are listed below:
• Increased transaminases: 13.2% (34/257) overall – 5.4% (14/257) Grade 3-4
• Increased GGT: 14.0% (36/257) overall – 4.7% (12/257) Grade 3-4
Gastrointestinal disorders
In the Combo 450 ISP, diarrhoea was observed in 41.7% (155/372) of patients and was Grade 3 or 4 in 3.8% (14/372) of patients. Diarrhoea led to dose discontinuation in 0.8% of patients and to dose interruption or dose modification in 8.1% of patients. Constipation occurred in 24.7% (92/372) of patients and was Grade 1 or 2. Abdominal pain was reported in 28.5% (106/372) of patients and was Grade 3 in 2.2% (8/372) patients. Nausea occurred in 46.0% (171/372) with Grade 3 observed in 3.0% (11/372) of patients. Vomiting occurred in 31.2% (116/372) of patients with Grade 3 reported in 1.9% (7/372) of patients.
In Study CMEK162B2301-Part 2, in the Combo 300 arm, nausea was observed in 27.2% (70/257) of patients and was Grade 3 in 1.6% (4/257) of patients. Vomiting occurred in 15.2% (39/257) of patients with Grade 3 reported in 0.4% (1/257) of patients. Diarrhoea occurred in 28.4% (73/257) of patients with Grade 3 reported in 1.6% (4/257) of patients.
Gastrointestinal disorders were typically managed with standard therapy.
Anaemia
In the Combo 450 ISP, anaemia was reported in 23.1% (86/372) of patients; 7.0% (26/372) of patients had Grade 3 or 4. No patients discontinued treatment due to anaemia, 3.2% (12/372) required dose interruption or dose modification.
In Study CMEK162B2301-Part 2, in the Combo 300 arm, anaemia was observed in 9.7% (25/257) of patients with Grade 3-4 reported in 2.7% (7/257) patients.
Headache
In the Combo 450 ISP, headache occurred in 18.8% (70/372) of patients including Grade 3 in 1.1% (4/372) of patients.
In Study CMEK162B2301-Part 2, in the Combo 300 arm, headache was reported in 12.1% (31/257) of patients and was Grade 3 in 0.4% (1/257) of patients.
Fatigue
In the Combo 450 ISP, fatigue occurred in 48.1% (179/372) of patients including Grade 3 or 4 in 4.3% (16/372) of patients.
In Study CMEK162B2301-Part 2, in the Combo 300 arm, fatigue was observed in 33.5% (86/257) of patients with 1.6% (4/257) Grade 3-4 events.
Special populations
Elderly
In patients treated with Combo 450 ISP (n = 372), 230 patients (61.8 %) were < 65 years old, 107 patients (28.8%) were 65-74 years old and 35 patients (9.4%) were aged > 75. No overall differences in safety or efficacy were observed between elderly patients (≥ 65) and younger patients except diarrhoea and pruritus that were more frequently reported in elderly patients.
In the age subgroup of patients aged ≥ 75 years, Grade ≥3 adverse reactions (62.9% vs 47.5%), adverse reactions (all grades) requiring dose modification of any study drug (60.0% vs 48.1%) or leading to treatment discontinuation (25.7% vs 7.4%) were more frequently reported than in patients <75 years. The most common adverse reactions reported with a higher incidence in patients aged ≥ 75 years compared to patients aged < 75 years included fatigue, nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting and anaemia.
Reporting of suspected adverse reactions
Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via: Yellow Card Scheme Website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store.
The highest dose of binimetinib evaluated as single agent in clinical studies was 80 mg administered orally twice daily and was associated with ocular (chorioretinopathy) and skin toxicities (dermatitis acneiform).
There is no specific treatment of overdose. If overdose occurs, the patient should be treated supportively with appropriate monitoring as necessary.
Since binimetinib is highly bound to plasma proteins, haemodialysis is likely to be ineffective in the treatment of overdose with binimetinib.
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