Mektovi (binimetinib) is a prescription drug that’s used to treat certain types of cancer. The drug comes as a tablet that you swallow. It’s usually taken twice per day.
Mektovi is used in adults to treat:
- metastatic melanoma or melanoma that cannot be removed by surgery
- metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
Mektovi is prescribed for these types of cancer when you have a genetic mutation called BRAF V600E or V600K. Mektovi is used in combination with a drug called encorafenib (Braftovi).
The active ingredient in Mektovi is binimetinib. Mektovi belongs to a group of drugs called kinase inhibitors.
This article describes the dosages of Mektovi, as well as its strength and how to take it. To learn more about Mektovi, see this in-depth article.
This section describes the usual dosages of Mektovi. Keep reading to learn more.
What is Mektovi’s form?
Mektovi is available as a tablet that you swallow.
What strength does Mektovi come in?
Mektovi comes in one strength of 15 milligrams (mg).
What are the usual dosages of Mektovi?
Your doctor will likely start you on the recommended dosage of Mektovi based on the condition it’s being used to treat.
The information below describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended. But be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. They’ll determine the best dosage to fit your needs. In some cases, doctors may adjust your dosage from those shown below.
Dosage for melanoma
The typical Mektovi dosage for melanoma is 45 mg taken twice per day (about every 12 hours). This dosage is for adults with metastatic melanoma or melanoma that’s unresectable (cannot be removed by surgery).
You’ll take Mektovi in combination with encorafenib (Braftovi). Your doctor will tell you how to take that medication.
Talk with your doctor if you have questions about your dosage and treatment.
Dosage for metastatic non-small cell lung cancer
For adults with NSCLC, the typical dosage of Mektovi is 45 mg taken twice per day (about every 12 hours).
You’ll take Mektovi in combination with encorafenib (Braftovi). Your doctor will tell you how to take that medication.
Talk with your doctor if you have questions about your dosage of Mektovi.
You’ll take your prescribed dosage of Mekotovi tablets twice per day, about every 12 hours. You should swallow each tablet whole, with or without food.
If you have problems swallowing tablets, see this helpful article for tips, or talk with your pharmacist for options on how to take your medication.
Is Mektovi used long term?
Yes, Mektovi is typically used as a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that it’s safe and effective for your condition, you’ll likely take it long term.
That means that you’ll take Mektovi as long as it’s working to treat your condition and you don’t have serious side effects from it. Your doctor may pause or stop treatment if you experience serious side effects.
Do not take more Mektovi than your doctor prescribes, as this can lead to harmful effects.
What to do in case you take too much Mektovi
Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve taken too much Mektovi. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach America’s Poison Centers or use its online resource. But if you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 (or your local emergency number) or go to the nearest emergency room.
Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.