Braftovi (encorafenib) is a targeted cancer medicine used to treat cancers that have a specific genetic mutation called BRAF V600. It is a BRAF inhibitor, meaning it blocks a faulty protein produced by this mutated gene that drives cancer cell growth.

Braftovi is used to treat:

• Unresectable or metastatic melanoma (skin cancer that has spread) with a BRAF V600E or V600K mutation, in combination with a MEK inhibitor called binimetinib (Mektovi)
• Metastatic colorectal cancer with a BRAF V600E mutation, in combination with an EGFR inhibitor called cetuximab (Erbitux), in people who have already had prior treatment

Before starting Braftovi, your doctor will test your tumour to confirm it has a BRAF V600 mutation.

Braftovi is only effective if this mutation is present.

How it works:

The BRAF gene normally helps control cell growth. When it mutates (particularly at V600), it becomes permanently switched on and drives uncontrolled cancer cell division. Braftovi blocks this faulty BRAF protein, slowing or stopping cancer growth. It is typically used alongside binimetinib or cetuximab for a more complete effect on the cancer signalling pathway.

Your dose:

For melanoma: the usual dose is 450mg (six 75mg capsules) once daily, taken alongside binimetinib.

For colorectal cancer: the usual dose is 300mg (four 75mg capsules) once daily.

Your doctor will confirm the right dose for your situation.

How to take it:

• Take Braftovi at the same time every day
• It can be taken with or without food
• Swallow the capsules whole. Do not open, crush, or chew them
• Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice during treatment

Before you start:

• Tell your doctor about all other medicines, vitamins, and supplements you take
• Let your doctor know if you have any history of heart problems, liver disease, eye problems, or bleeding disorders
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Effective contraception is required during and for a period after treatment

Ongoing check-ups:

You will need regular skin checks (for new skin cancers), eye assessments, heart monitoring (ECG), and blood tests during treatment. These are important, so attend all scheduled appointments.

• If you remember within 12 hours of your usual dose: take it as soon as possible
• If more than 12 hours have passed: skip the missed dose and take your next one at the usual time
• Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one

Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure what to do.

If you think you have taken more than prescribed, call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department straight away.

Bring your medicine with you.

Signs that something might be wrong include:

• Severe nausea or vomiting
• Heart palpitations or an irregular heartbeat
• Vision changes

• Store below 30°C
• Keep in the original packaging, away from moisture and light
• Do not store in the bathroom
• Keep out of reach of children and pets

Side effects are common.

Knowing what to watch for helps you manage them early.

• Fatigue: Very common. Rest when needed and let your care team know if it affects your daily life
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea: Often manageable with supportive treatment. Staying hydrated is important
• Joint and muscle pain: Commonly reported. Your doctor may adjust your dose if severe
• Skin reactions: Rash, dry skin, or sensitivity to sunlight. Use sunscreen and protective clothing outdoors
• New skin cancers: BRAF inhibitors can occasionally trigger new skin growths (including squamous cell carcinoma). This is why regular skin checks are essential
• Eye problems: Some people develop inflammation or changes inside the eye. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice blurred vision, floaters, or sensitivity to light
• Heart rhythm changes: QT prolongation can occur. Your heart rhythm will be monitored during treatment
• Liver changes: Elevated liver enzymes are possible. Your doctor will check these with blood tests

Contact your doctor or pharmacist if any side effect concerns you.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist everything you are taking before starting Braftovi.

Key interactions include:

• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (such as ketoconazole, clarithromycin, ritonavir): Can significantly increase encorafenib levels, raising the risk of serious side effects
• Strong CYP3A4 inducers (such as rifampicin, carbamazepine, St John's Wort): Can reduce how well Braftovi works
• Medicines that prolong the QT interval: Combining these with Braftovi may increase the risk of heart rhythm problems
• Grapefruit and grapefruit juice: Can increase encorafenib levels. Avoid these throughout treatment

Never start, stop, or change any medicine without speaking to your doctor first.

What does BRAF V600 mutation mean?

BRAF is a gene that normally helps regulate cell growth. When it mutates at the V600 position, it becomes permanently switched on, causing cells to multiply uncontrollably. This mutation is found in about 40-50% of melanomas and in a smaller proportion of colorectal cancers. Medicines like Braftovi are specifically designed to target and block this mutation.

Why do I need to take Braftovi with another medicine?

Braftovi is used in combination with either binimetinib (for melanoma) or cetuximab (for colorectal cancer) because combining medicines that target different parts of the cancer signalling pathway is more effective at controlling cancer growth than either medicine alone. It also helps reduce the risk of resistance developing.

How long will I need to take Braftovi?

Treatment continues as long as your cancer is responding and you are tolerating the medicine. Your doctor will monitor your response through regular scans and assessments.

Ace provides accurate and independent information medically reviewed on prescription medications. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.