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MEK inhibitor

Trametinib (Specialist drug)

Brand names: Mekinist

Trametinib is an oral MEK inhibitor used under specialist supervision, usually combined with a BRAF inhibitor, for BRAF V600-mutation-positive melanoma and certain other BRAF-mutant tumours.

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 MEK1 and MEK2 kinases in the MAPK signalling pathway, blocking downstream ERK activation that drives tumour cell proliferation.

Prescribing in practice

  • Baseline and periodic assessment of cardiac (left ventricular ejection fraction) and ophthalmic function is essential because it can cause cardiomyopathy and retinal disorders.
  • It is given by oncology specialists and is typically used in combination with a BRAF inhibitor such as dabrafenib.
  • Pyrexia, rash, hypertension and venous thromboembolism are recognised effects requiring monitoring and dose review per the SPC.

Monitoring

Monitor left ventricular ejection fraction, blood pressure, visual symptoms, liver function and skin before and during treatment.

Counselling the patient

  • Report new shortness of breath, leg swelling, visual disturbance or persistent fever.
  • Use effective contraception during and after treatment as advised.
  • New or changing skin lesions should be reported, and sun protection is advised.

Evidence & guidelines

Combination BRAF/MEK inhibition is supported by landmark melanoma trials (e.g. COMBI-d/COMBI-v) and relevant NICE appraisals.

Reference: NICE TA396; 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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