How do you take Binimetinib?

The usual adult dose is 45 mg (three 15 mg tablets) taken by mouth twice a day, roughly 12 hours apart. You can take it with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole — do not crush or chew them. Your oncologist (cancer doctor) will tell you exactly how long to continue treatment.

What are the side effects of Binimetinib?

Skin rash or dry skin, diarrhea or stomach upset, tiredness and weakness, swelling of the hands or feet, nausea or vomiting

Who should not take Binimetinib?

People who are allergic to binimetinib or any of its ingredients, people with serious eye conditions or a history of retinal problems, people with severe liver or heart disease unless closely monitored by a specialist, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and children.

Prescription

Anticancer (MEK inhibitor)

Binimetinib

Last reviewed June 2026

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

Binimetinib (sold as Mektovi) is a cancer medicine that works by blocking a specific protein called MEK, which helps cancer cells grow and spread — by blocking it, the drug slows down or stops the growth of certain cancers.

What is it used for?

A type of skin cancer called melanoma that has a specific gene change (BRAF mutation)usually used together with another cancer drug called encorafenib

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Cancer Treatment

How it works

Inhibits mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK1/2) in the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway, preventing proliferation of BRAF-mutant melanoma cells. When combined with encorafenib (a BRAF inhibitor), it provides dual pathway blockade to overcome resistance mechanisms and enhance anti-tumor activity.

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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What to watch out for

This is a highly specialized cancer drug — only take it if prescribed and supervised by a qualified cancer specialist (oncologist). Do not buy from unverified sources or roadside sellers, as counterfeit cancer medicines are extremely dangerous. Report any vision changes, unusual bleeding, or breathing difficulties to your doctor immediately without delay.

Common Side Effects

Skin rash or dry skin
diarrhea or stomach upset
tiredness and weakness
swelling of the hands or feet
nausea or vomiting

Serious Side Effects

Eye problems such as blurred vision
seeing flashing lights
or eye pain — see a doctor immediately. Unusual bleeding or blood in stool or urine. Signs of heart problems like shortness of breath
chest pain
or swollen legs — go to the hospital right away.

Drug Interactions

Binimetinib can interact with strong enzyme-affecting drugs like rifampicin (commonly used for TB treatment in Nigeria), so tell your doctor about all your medications. Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice as it may affect how the drug works. Discuss alcohol use with your doctor, as it may worsen liver side effects.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Binimetinib is NOT safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding — it can harm an unborn baby, so women of childbearing age must use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 30 days after the last dose.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to binimetinib or any of its ingredients
people with serious eye conditions or a history of retinal problems
people with severe liver or heart disease unless closely monitored by a specialist
pregnant or breastfeeding women
and children.

How to Store

Store at room temperature, ideally below 30°C. Keep the tablets in their original container, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture — important in Nigeria's hot and humid climate. Always keep this medicine far out of reach of children.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.