Understanding Your Melanoma Medications: A Patient's Guide

Introduction

This guide will help you understand the various medications used to treat melanoma and what to expect during treatment.

Types of Melanoma Medications

1. Targeted Therapy

• BRAF Inhibitors

  • Vemurafenib (Zelboraf®)
  • Dabrafenib (Tafinlar®)
  • Common side effects: joint pain, fatigue, skin rash

• MEK Inhibitors

  • Trametinib (Mekinist®)
  • Cobimetinib (Cotellic®)
  • Common side effects: diarrhea, swelling, vision changes

2. Immunotherapy

• Checkpoint Inhibitors
  • Pembrolizumab (Keytruda®)
  • Nivolumab (Opdivo®)
  • Ipilimumab (Yervoy®)
  • Common side effects: fatigue, inflammation, rash

Managing Your Medications

Taking Your Medications

1. Follow prescribed schedule exactly
2. Take missed doses as instructed by your doctor
3. Store medications properly
4. Keep track of side effects

Important Safety Considerations

• Report new symptoms promptly
• Avoid sun exposure
• Maintain regular check-ups
• Keep emergency contact information handy

When to Contact Your Healthcare Team

• Severe side effects
• New or worsening symptoms
• Questions about medication interactions
• Concerns about treatment response

Support Resources

• Melanoma support groups
• Patient assistance programs
• Educational materials
• Care team contact information