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BRAF V600 inhibitor (specialist)

Dabrafenib

Brand names: Tafinlar

Dabrafenib is an oral BRAF inhibitor used, usually with the MEK inhibitor trametinib, for BRAF V600-mutation-positive melanoma and certain other BRAF-mutant cancers.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It selectively inhibits mutated BRAF V600 kinase within the MAPK signalling pathway, suppressing downstream MEK-ERK signalling and tumour proliferation.

Prescribing in practice

  • Can cause pyrexia (sometimes with rigors and hypotension), cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and other new malignancies, and serious skin reactions, so febrile episodes and new skin lesions must be assessed.
  • It is a CYP substrate and inducer, so check for clinically important drug interactions; it should not be used as monotherapy where combination with a MEK inhibitor is indicated.
  • Prescribed only by specialists experienced in anticancer therapy, with mutation status confirmed by validated testing per the SPC.

Monitoring

Monitor body temperature, undertake periodic skin examination for new lesions, and check blood glucose and liver function during treatment.

Counselling the patient

  • Report any fever promptly as it may require treatment to be paused.
  • Report new skin lumps, sores or changing moles, and use sun protection.
  • Effective contraception is advised during treatment.

Evidence & guidelines

Combination with trametinib in BRAF V600-mutant melanoma is supported by the COMBI trials and reflected in the SPC and NICE guidance.

Reference: NICE TA396/TA547; ESMO; SmPC; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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