Rafinlar 75mg Capsule contains an active molecule named as Dabrafenib. It is used to treat skin cancer called melanoma which cannot be removed by surgery or has spread to other body parts. Also prevents melanoma from returning after being removed from surgery. This medication is used to treat a kind of lung cancer called non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It is only used to treat NSCLC and melanomas with abnormal BRAF genes.
In cancer, cells multiply uncontrolled and abnormally. Talk to your physician if you have any liver problems, kidney problems, heart problems, eye problems, breathing problems, gastrointestinal disorders, or have had a different type of cancer before taking this medication. It is not recommended for adolescents and children under the age of 18. Rafinlar 75mg Capsule may impair fertility. Before starting the treatment, talk to your physician about options to improve your chances of having children.
Uses of Rafinlar 75mg Capsule
Rafinlar 75mg Capsule used in the treatment of:
- Melanoma
Non-small cell lung cancer
Therapeutic Effects of Rafinlar 75mg Capsule
The therapeutic effect of Rafinlar 75mg Capsule is inhibiting the BRAF protein, which plays a crucial role in the signaling pathway that leads to uncontrolled cell growth in cancer cells with the BRAF mutation. By blocking the activity of the BRAF protein, this medication can slow down or stop the growth and spread of cancer cells, leading to the shrinkage of tumors and improving overall health.
Interaction of Rafinlar 75mg Capsule with other drugs
Inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, nutritional or vitamin supplements, and herbal products. Certain medications may interact with Rafinlar 75mg Capsule and reduce effectiveness by causing undesirable side effects.
More Information about Rafinlar 75mg Capsule
How to consume Rafinlar 75mg Capsule
Rafinlar 75mg Capsule is usually taken orally, in the form of a capsule, once or twice a day, with or without food. The dose and frequency depend on several factors, such as the individual's age, weight, overall health, and the type and stage of the cancer being treated. It should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water and not opened, crushed, or chewed. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible unless it's almost time for the next scheduled dose, in which case the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Do not double the dose to make up for missed doses.
Safety Advices for Rafinlar 75mg Capsule
Pregnancy
Rafinlar 75mg Capsule is unsafe during pregnancy as it can cause fetal harm. It is s recommended to avoid this medication during pregnancy.
Breast Feeding
You need to talk to your doctor if you are breastfeeding before taking Rafinlar 75mg Capsule. It may cause harm to the baby.
Lungs
Rafinlar 75mg Capsule can cause side effects that affect the lungs, such as cough, shortness of breath, and pneumonitis (inflammation of the lung tissue). In rare cases, it can also cause interstitial lung disease (ILD), a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.
Liver
Rafinlar 75mg Capsule can affect liver function, and in rare cases, it can cause liver damage, including hepatotoxicity and liver failure. Therefore, it's important to inform your healthcare professional if you have any history of liver problems, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, before starting treatment.
Alcohol
It is recommended to avoid consuming alcohol while taking Rafinlar 75mg Capsule, as alcohol can increase the risk of certain side effects associated with the medication, such as stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Driving
Patients receiving Rafinlar 75mg Capsule should be advised to avoid driving or operating machinery if they experience side effects such as fatigue, dizziness, or blurred vision, impairing a patient's ability to drive or operate machinery safely.
Side Effects of Rafinlar 75mg Capsule
Rafinlar 75mg Capsule can cause side effects like all medications, although not everyone who takes it will experience them.
Serious:
- New or worsening skin lesions or changes in skin color or texture
- Severe or persistent abdominal pain
- Signs of liver damage, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or persistent nausea and vomiting
- Chest pain or heart palpitations
- Bleeding or bruising easily
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing
Common:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Fatigue or weakness
- Headache
- Fever
- Chills
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Loss of appetite
- Dry skin or rash
- Joint pain or muscle pain
- Cough or shortness of breath
Word of Advice
If you are receiving Rafinlar 75mg Capsule, it's important to be proactive in managing your treatment and monitoring your symptoms. Keep communication with your healthcare provider and report any concerns or side effects as soon as possible. Avoid getting pregnant and breastfeeding during treatment. Use effective birth control during the treatment and at least 2 weeks after the last dose. Use sun protection to avoid the chances of secondary cancer of the skin. Take steps to care for yourself physically and emotionally during treatment, and seek support from loved ones and professionals as needed. Maintain a healthy and balanced diet during treatment to support your overall health and well-being. Being informed and engaged in your treatment can help ensure the best possible outcomes and manage potential risks or complications.
FAQs
Q 1. Can Rafinlar 75mg Capsule be used to treat other types of cancer besides melanoma?
Rafinlar 75mg Capsule is currently only approved for the treatment of melanoma and has not been approved for other types of cancer. But it can also be used to treat non-small cell lung carcinoma.
Q 2. Can Rafinlar 75mg Capsule be combined with other medications for melanoma treatment?
Rafinlar 75mg Capsule is often used with trametinib for treating melanoma.
Q 3. How long do patients typically take Rafinlar 75mg Capsules?
The Rafinlar 75mg Capsule treatment duration can vary depending on the individual patient and their response to treatment. Some patients may take it for several months, while others may take it for several years.
Q 4. Can Rafinlar 75mg Capsule be taken with food?
Rafinlar 75mg Capsule should be taken at least one hour before or two hours after a meal, as food can affect the absorption of the medication.
Q 5. Can Rafinlar 75mg Capsule cause hair loss?
Hair loss is not a common side effect of Rafinlar 75mg Capsule, but it can occur in some patients. Hair growth becomes normal after discontinuing this medication.
Q 6. Can Rafinlar 75mg Capsule be used in pediatric patients?
Rafinlar 75mg Capsule is not currently approved for pediatric patients, and its safety and effectiveness have not been established in this population.
Fact Box of Rafinlar 75mg Capsule
Molecule name: Dabrafenib | Therapeutic class: Anticancer |
Pharmacological class: Kinase Inhibitor | Indications: 1. Melanoma 2. Non-small cell lung cancer |