Trametinib

Generic name: trametinib [ tra-ME-ti-nib ]
Brand name: Mekinist
Dosage forms: oral powder for reconstitution (0.05 mg/mL), oral tablet (0.5 mg; 2 mg)
Drug class: Multikinase inhibitors

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on May 20, 2025. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is trametinib?

Trametinib is used, either alone or in combination with dabrafenib to treat certain types of cancer of the skin, lung, or thyroid.

Trametinib is also used in combination with dabrafenib to treat solid tumors or a type of brain tumor in adults and children at least 1 year old.

Trametinib is often given when the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, when surgery is not an option.

Your doctor will make sure you have the correct tumor type to be treated with trametinib.

Trametinib tablet is used only in adults and children who weigh at least 57 pounds (26 kg).

Trametinib may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Trametinib side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction (hives, difficult breathing, swelling in your face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling).

Seek medical treatment if you have a serious drug reaction that can affect many parts of your body. Symptoms may include skin rash, fever, swollen glands, muscle aches, severe weakness, unusual bruising, or yellowing of your skin or eyes.

Trametinib may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• unusual bruising or bleeding, new signs of infection (fever, weakness, cough, diarrhea, problems urinating);

• worsening acne or skin rash, flu-like symptoms, mouth sores;

• cough, feeling short of breath;

• severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in your neck or ears;

• high blood sugar--increased thirst, increased urination, dry mouth, fruity breath odor;

• signs of eye problems--eye pain or swelling, vision changes, seeing halos around lights, seeing color "dots" in your vision;

• signs of bleeding inside the body--weakness, dizziness, headache, red or pink urine, bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds;

• signs of a blood clot or heart problems--feeling lightheaded, chest pain, sudden cough or trouble breathing, pounding or irregular heartbeats, pain or swelling, pale skin, cold feeling in an arm or leg; or

• a hole (perforation) in your digestive tract--fever, severe stomach pain, change in bowel habits.

Your cancer treatments may be changed, delayed, or permanently discontinued if you have certain side effects.

Common side effects of trametinib may include:

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, constipation;

• fever, chills, tiredness, stomach pain;

• headache;

• bleeding;

• increased blood pressure;

• muscle, bone, or joint pain;

• cough, shortness of breath;

• swelling in your arms, face, and legs; or

• rash, acne, dry skin, skin infection around nails.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Related/similar drugs

Warnings

Using trametinib together with dabrafenib may increase your risk of developing other types of cancer. Tell your doctor if you notice any new skin symptoms.

Before taking this medicine

Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:

• heart problems, high blood pressure;

• diabetes;

• lung or breathing problems;

• a stomach or intestinal disorder;

• eye problems (especially with your retina);

• trouble swallowing;

• bleeding problems, blood clot; or

• liver or kidney disease.

Using trametinib together with dabrafenib may increase your risk of developing other types of cancer. Ask your doctor about this risk.

Trametinib can harm an unborn baby if the mother or the father is using trametinib.

• If you are a woman, you may need a pregnancy test to make sure you are not pregnant. Use birth control while using this medicine and for at least 4 months after your last dose. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant.

• If you are a man, use condoms if your sex partner is able to get pregnant. Keep using birth control, even if you had a vasectomy for at least 4 months after your last dose.

• Tell your doctor right away if a pregnancy occurs.

Do not breastfeed while using this medicine, and for at least 4 months after your last dose.

How should I take trametinib?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Take trametinib tablet once per day on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.

Trametenib oral solution may be taken once per day on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal, or with a low-fat meal when administered alone . Trametenib oral solution in combination with dabrafenib, should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. If needed, breastfeeding or baby formula may be given.

Take the medicine at the same time each day.

Doses are based on weight in children and teenagers. Your child's dose may change if the child gains or loses weight.

Swallow the tablet whole and do not crush, chew, or break it.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided for the oral solution before preparing your first dose. Measure a dose with the supplied measuring device (not a kitchen spoon). The oral solution can also be given through a feeding tube. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

If you vomit shortly after taking trametinib, do not take another dose. Take your next dose as scheduled

You blood pressure will need to checked often and you will need frequent medical tests including your heart function. Your dose or medication schedule may be changed based on the results. Make sure to not miss any follow-up appointment.

Your doctor should check your skin before starting, during treatment, and up to 6 months after treatment with trametinib. Tell your doctor if you notice any new skin changes such as redness, sores that will not heal, a new wart or mole that has changed in size or color.

Do not change your dose or dosing schedule without your doctor's advice.

Store at room temperature in the original container away from moisture and light. Use within the number of days specified in the Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Do not freeze. Your pharmacist can provide more information about how to store this medicine.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if your next dose is due in less than 12 hours. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking trametinib?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect trametinib?

Other drugs may affect trametinib, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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