Each type of cancer treatment has its own adverse event (AE) profile, and BRAF and MEK inhibitors are no different, explained Michael A. Postow, MD, medical oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

In advanced melanoma, AEs may differ depending on the drug combination that a patient is prescribed. Those who are on dabrafenib (Tafinlar) and trametinib (Mekinist) are more likely to experience fever and chills. And if they do, it is important that providers hold treatment until these symptoms go away.

Patients prescribed vemurafenib (Zelboraf) plus cobimetinib (Cotellic) may be more likely to experience skin-related AEs, and need to be careful when it comes to sun exposure.

Finally, patients who take encorafenib (Braftovi) and binimetinib (Mektovi) may be more susceptible to arthralgia.

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Each type of cancer treatment has its own adverse event (AE) profile, and BRAF and MEK inhibitors are no different.

Adverse Events of BRAF and MEK Inhibitors

Michael A. Postow, MD, medical oncologist, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, discusses nurses’ roles in treating patients receiving immunotherapy, especially combination checkpoint blockades, which are typically associated with higher risks of adverse events.

Postow says that nurses are closest to the patients, and often the first line of defense in managing side effects. Patients need to be forthcoming in telling their nursing staff about any occurrences, while nurses must monitor these reports carefully and know when to use immunosuppression to manage them.

Michael A. Postow, MD

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Adverse Events of BRAF and MEK Inhibitors

Michael A. Postow Discusses Nurses' Role in Treating Patients Receiving Immunotherapies