Dabrafenib in Skin Cancer: A Promising Treatment Option

Skin cancer, the most common type worldwide, is on the rise, with melanoma being particularly aggressive. Recent advances in targeted therapy, like dabrafenib, offer more effective and less toxic treatment options compared to traditional chemotherapy. In 2020, there were an estimated 1.5 million new skin cancer cases globally, with melanoma comprising around one-fifth of them, totaling about 325,000 cases. Melanoma ranks 17th overall in cancer incidence globally, 13th among men, and 15th among women.

What is Dabrafenib?

Dabrafenib is a targeted therapy that is used to treat melanoma that has a specific mutation in a protein called BRAF. This mutation is present in approximately 50% of melanoma cases and is associated with a poorer prognosis. Dabrafenib works by inhibiting the activity of the mutated BRAF protein, which in turn slows or stops the growth of cancer cells.

How is Dabrafenib Used?

Dabrafenib is commonly prescribed in the form of oral pills. The dosage and treatment plan for dabrafenib are personalized by healthcare providers and depend on factors such as the patient’s medical status and how they respond to the treatment. The duration of dabrafenib treatment is influenced by various factors, including the specific medications used, the individual’s response to therapy, and the type of cancer being addressed.

Usually, adult patients are advised to take TAFINLAR at a dosage of 150 mg, which typically consists of two 75 mg capsules, orally twice daily. For pediatric patients, the recommended dosage is determined by their body weight. It is recommended to take TAFINLAR at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal to optimize its effectiveness.

Adverse Effects of Dabrafenib

Dabrafenib may cause side effects, and patients should be aware of the potential adverse effects of the medication. Common side effects of dabrafenib may include 

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Rash. 

Some side effects of dabrafenib can be serious, and patients should seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as chest pain or discomfort, difficulty breathing, or seizures.

Success Rate Of Dabrafenib 

When used as a standalone treatment, dabrafenib has been found to prolong progression-free and overall survival in patients with unresectable stage III and IV melanoma. However, this effect is typically temporary, as resistance often develops within 6 to 7 months.

Combining dabrafenib with trametinib, a MEK inhibitor, has demonstrated even more promising results. This combination therapy has shown improved overall survival and progression-free survival compared to dabrafenib alone. Patients receiving dabrafenib and trametinib together had a median overall survival of 25.1 months, whereas those on dabrafenib alone had a median survival of 18.7 months. Moreover, the combination therapy has been associated with a reduced risk of developing cutaneous squamous-cell carcinoma, a serious side effect linked with BRAF inhibitors.

Although five-year survival rates for patients treated with dabrafenib plus trametinib have not been reported, the combination therapy has shown a 12-month survival rate of 72 percent, compared to 65 percent in those treated with vemurafenib alone.

Conclusion

Dabrafenib presents a promising avenue for treating melanoma characterized by a specific mutation in the BRAF protein. As a targeted therapy, it functions by inhibiting the activity of the mutated BRAF protein, thereby impeding the proliferation of cancer cells. Typically administered orally, its dosage and treatment regimen are tailored by healthcare providers according to individual patient factors and treatment responses. While potential side effects may arise, the efficacy of dabrafenib in melanoma treatment underscores its significance as a valuable addition to the treatment options for this aggressive form of skin cancer. To check availability of Dabrafenib in India(the generic version), interested individuals can contact the Patient Support Team at (+91) 9315705373 or via email at help@sansfro.com.