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Zelboraf Coupon - Zelboraf 240mg tablet

Zelboraf

vemurafenib
Used for Melanoma
Used for Melanoma

Zelboraf (vemurafenib) is a targeted therapy that’s used to treat a type of skin cancer called melanoma and a rare blood cancer called Erdheim-Chester disease (ECD). These cancers must have a certain mutation called a BRAF mutation in order for you to use Zelboraf (vemurafenib) as treatment. This medication is a tablet that you take by mouth, but some side effects can include tiredness, joint pain, and rash.

Last reviewed on August 8, 2023
basics-icon

What is Zelboraf (vemurafenib)?

What is Zelboraf (vemurafenib) used for?

  • Melanoma with a certain BRAF mutation that has spread (metastatic) or can’t be removed by surgery

  • Erdheim-Chester disease (ECD) with a certain BRAF mutation

How Zelboraf (vemurafenib) works

Zelboraf (vemurafenib) is a kinase inhibitor known as a BRAF inhibitor. The BRAF protein helps cells (including cancer cells) grow. And when the BRAF protein is mutated, the cancer can grow uncontrollably and spread more quickly. By blocking BRAF, Zelboraf (vemurafenib) helps stop tumor growth.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsZelboraf
Drug ClassBRAF inhibitor
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Zelboraf (vemurafenib)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

The side effects below were reported by people with melanoma during clinical studies. Side effects might differ for people with Erdheim-Chester disease.
  • Joint pain (up to 67%)
  • Tiredness (up to 54%)
  • Rash (up to 52%)
  • Sun sensitivity (up to 49%)
  • Hair loss (up to 45%)
  • Nausea (up to 37%)
  • Itching (up to 30%)
  • Skin papilloma (non-cancerous, wart-like skin growth; up to 30%)
  • Diarrhea (up to 29%)
  • Thickened skin (up to 28%)
  • Headache (up to 27%)
  • Vomiting (up to 26%)

Other Side Effects

  • Muscle or back pain
  • Pain in arms or legs
  • Swelling in arms or legs
  • Low appetite
  • Constipation
  • Fever
  • Dry skin
  • Sunburn
  • Rash
  • New skin cancers
  • Changes in taste
  • Cough
  • Weakness
  • Changes in liver enzyme levels in blood

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Serious allergic reactions: rash, fever, trouble breathing, swelling of the face or mouth
  • Serious skin reactions: painful blisters, skin wounds, peeling skin
  • Serious liver problems: upper stomach pain, yellow skin, yellow around the whites of the eyes
  • Changes in heart rhythm: lightheadedness, blurry vision, fainting, seizures, loss of consciousness
  • Serious reaction in people who’ve received radiation therapy: see Warnings for more details

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin

bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet

bloody urine

blurred vision or other change in vision

chills

cough

decreased frequency or amount of urine

diarrhea

dizziness

eye pain

fainting

fast or irregular heartbeat

fever

increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight

increased thirst

itching or skin rash

joint or muscle pain

loss of appetite

lower back or side pain

lump or growth on the skin

nausea

pain in the ankles or knees

painful, red lumps under the skin, mostly on the legs

paralysis of the nerves

rapid weight gain

rash with flat lesions or small raised lesions on the skin

red skin lesions, often with a purple center

red, irritated eyes

redness or other discoloration of the skin

redness, soreness, swelling, or itching of the skin

scaling of the skin on the hands and feet

sensitivity of the eye to light

severe sunburn

sore throat

sores, ulcers, or white spots in the mouth or on the lips

sores, welts, or blisters

tearing

tingling of the hands and feet

tiredness

trouble breathing

ulceration of the skin

unusual tiredness or weakness

unusual weight gain or loss

vomiting

weight gain

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Back or bone pain

burning, itching, and pain in the hairy areas, or pus at the root of the hair

change in taste

cough

decreased appetite

decreased weight

difficulty having a bowel movement

difficulty with moving

dry skin

hair loss or thinning of the hair

headache

lack or loss of strength

loss of taste

muscle stiffness

pain in the arms or legs

sunburn

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Zelboraf (vemurafenib)

thumbs-up

Pros

Recommended for people with BRAF-mutated melanoma or Erdheim-Chester disease

Works in a more specific, targeted way than traditional chemotherapy

Can take with or without food

thumbs-down

Cons

Not recommended for people who don’t have a BRAF mutation in their cancer

Typical dose is four tablets taken all at one time, so not ideal for people with trouble swallowing

Might cause side effects such as sun sensitivity, joint pain, and hair loss

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Zelboraf (vemurafenib)

pharmacist
  • For each dose, you’ll need to take several tablets of Zelboraf (vemurafenib) all at once (or one right after another). You can take the medication with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole; don’t crush or chew them.

    • Let your provider know if you feel nauseous during treatment so they can prescribe an antiemetic medication, like ondansetron (Zofran) or prochlorperazine, to help prevent or manage this side effect. The nausea is usually mild, but if it’s severe, contact your provider. They might adjust your treatment.

      • You might experience some diarrhea when you first start Zelboraf (vemurafenib) treatment, but this should improve over time. Your provider might suggest an over-the-counter medication like loperamide (Imodium A-D) to help manage diarrhea. If you have diarrhea, it’s important to drink a lot of fluids. But try to avoid sugary sports drinks because they can make diarrhea worse.

        • It’s important to wear broad-spectrum sunscreen while outdoors to protect your skin. Zelboraf (vemurafenib) makes your skin sensitive to sunlight, which can cause skin damage or sunburns.

          • Don't breastfeed while you're taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib). We don’t know whether Zelboraf (vemurafenib) is found in breast milk and whether it affects breastfed babies. But because of the possible risks to a baby, it’s best to avoid nursing when you’re taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib) and for 2 weeks after the last dose.

            • Ask your provider about the best way to handle and throw away Zelboraf (vemurafenib) safely. Anticancer medications can be harmful to people who handle or come in contact with them. You should store the medication up and away, so children and pets won’t be able to reach it.

              faqs

              Frequently asked questions about Zelboraf (vemurafenib)

              I have melanoma skin cancer, but I don’t have a BRAF mutation. Can I still take Zelboraf (vemurafenib)?
              People who don’t have BRAF-mutated melanoma (or any other type of cancer without a BRAF mutation) shouldn’t take Zelboraf (vemurafenib). This medication is specifically approved for people with this mutation. What’s more, lab studies show that it’s possible for Zelboraf (vemurafenib) to raise the risk of cancer growth (instead of stopping growth) if the cancer doesn’t have a BRAF mutation. Talk to your provider if you’re unsure whether you have a BRAF mutation or not.
              Will I lose my hair if I take Zelboraf (vemurafenib)?
              Some people experienced hair loss while taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib), but complete hair loss is unlikely. Sometimes, people’s hair changed texture (became curlier) or changed color. If you do notice hair loss, using a soft-bristled brush, only washing your hair when necessary, and using mild shampoos are things you can do to help manage this effect. You might also want to talk to your provider because there can be other causes of hair loss.
              Can I take Zelboraf (vemurafenib) if I have heart problems?
              It depends. If you have a history of heart problems, talk to your provider before starting Zelboraf (vemurafenib). People born with certain heart rhythm problems (such as long QT syndrome) shouldn’t take Zelboraf (vemurafenib) because the medication might worsen this problem. Some people with heart problems might still be able to take Zelboraf (vemurafenib), but the provider might need to check the electrical activity of the heart more often with an electrocardiogram (EKG) or other lab tests.
              Does Zelboraf (vemurafenib) cause nausea?
              Some people experience nausea while taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib), but it’s usually mild. Your provider might give you an antiemetic medication, like ondansetron (Zofran) or prochlorperazine, to help prevent or manage nausea. Contact your provider if you have severe nausea while taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib).
              Can I go outdoors if I’m taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib)?
              Yes, you can still go outdoors while you’re taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib). But the medication might cause your skin to be more sensitive to sunlight and burn more easily. For this reason, make sure you take extra precautions to protect your skin whenever you step outside. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB. Your provider might also recommend wearing sun-protective clothing.
              What medications should I not take while I’m taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib)?
              There are some medications that you should avoid taking if possible while you’re taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib). For example, certain seizure medications, like phenytoin (Dilantin) and carbamazepine (Tegretol), can cause Zelboraf (vemurafenib) to not work as well. Other medications, like clarithromycin or diltiazem (Cardizem), can raise the levels of Zelboraf (vemurafenib) in your body and raise your risk of side effects. Your provider or pharmacist will review all the medications that you’re taking before you start Zelboraf (vemurafenib) to make sure there aren’t any interactions.
              How long should I take Zelboraf (vemurafenib) for?
              How long your treatment with Zelboraf (vemurafenib) lasts depends on many things, like the type of cancer or condition you have. It also depends on how well the medication is working for you and whether you’re having any side effects, both of which your provider will regularly discuss with you about. They can see how well the medication is working for you based on your scan results, lab tests, and symptoms. Make sure to let your provider know if you experience any side effects during treatment, such as severe rash, joint pain, or nausea. Don’t stop taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib) without first discussing with your provider.
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              warings-icon

              What are the risks and warnings for Zelboraf (vemurafenib)?

              Zelboraf (vemurafenib) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

              risk-warning

              New cancers

              • Risk factors: 65 years and older | Previous skin cancer | A lot of sun exposure over time

                Some people taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib) developed a new cancer. In studies, these cancers included different kinds of skin cancer and other non-skin cancers. While you’re taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib), your provider will monitor you for new signs and symptoms of cancer, especially skin cancers. If you notice a new sore on your skin or any skin changes while taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib), contact your provider.

                risk-warning

                Not for people with cancers without a BRAF mutation

                Zelboraf (vemurafenib) isn’t recommended for people with conditions without a BRAF mutation. Lab studies have shown that if a BRAF inhibitor is used to treat a condition that doesn’t have a BRAF mutation, it might cause cancer cells to grow. For this reason, BRAF inhibitors like Zelboraf (vemurafenib) should only be used in people with certain BRAF mutations. Your provider will confirm that you have a BRAF mutation before you start taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib).

                risk-warning

                Allergic reaction

                It’s possible for people taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib) to experience serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Severe symptoms can include rash, red and swollen skin, low blood pressure, and a serious reaction called drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS syndrome). If you have a new rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes, or trouble breathing, seek medical attention right away.

                risk-warning

                Changes in heart rhythm

                • Risk factors: Heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias) | Heart failure | Electrolyte imbalances | Taking medications that can change heart rhythm

                  Some people taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib) have had changes in their heart rhythm, also called QT prolongation. This lengthens the time it takes for your heart to recharge after each beat. Tell your provider about all the medical conditions you have and the medications you take. If you’re born with this heart rhythm problem (long QT syndrome) or if you take another medication that can raise your risk of this heart rhythm problem, it might not be safe for you to take Zelboraf (vemurafenib). In some cases, your provider might still prescribe Zelboraf (vemurafenib).

                  During treatment, your provider will track the electrical activity of your heart using a test called an electrocardiogram (EKG). If the EKG shows that you have a heart rhythm problem and you experience symptoms, such as dizziness, chest pain, or weakness, your provider might switch you to a different medication.

                  risk-warning

                  Liver problems

                  Some people taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib) have developed liver damage, sometimes causing the liver to not work as well. Since the liver plays a role in helping your body stop any bleeding, liver damage can sometimes affect your body’s ability to clot blood when it needs to.

                  During treatment, your provider will track your liver health through lab tests on a regular basis, usually every month. And if your levels are concerning, you might need to pause or stop Zelboraf (vemurafenib) while your provider looks into it. Most people don’t feel any noticeable symptoms when this happens, so it’s important to keep up with your lab work regularly. If you have stomach pain, yellowish skin, or yellow around the whites of your eyes, call your provider right away, as these can be symptoms of liver problems.

                  risk-warning

                  Skin that’s sensitive to sun and serious skin reactions

                  Zelboraf (vemurafenib) might cause your skin to be more sensitive to the sun and make it easier for you to get a sunburn. This reaction can be mild or severe. If possible, avoid being in direct sunlight while taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib). If you do go outdoors, wear protective clothing and broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. If you have a skin rash after being outdoors, contact your provider.

                  Rarely, Zelboraf (vemurafenib) can also cause severe and sometimes life-threatening skin reactions that happen with or without infections. These reactions include Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) or toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). Tell your provider right away if you develop painful blisters, skin wounds, peeling skin, flu-like symptoms, or fever. These are signs of a serious skin reaction that need immediate medical attention.

                  risk-warning

                  Eye problems

                  Though uncommon, some people taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib) experienced vision changes. These changes included blurry vision, light sensitivity, and swelling inside their eye (also called uveitis). Contact your provider right away if you have vision changes, eye pain, or light sensitivity. You might have to pause treatment while your provider or an ophthalmologist checks your eyes for problems.

                  risk-warning

                  Harm to unborn baby

                  While unknown, it’s possible for Zelboraf (vemurafenib) to harm an unborn baby based on the way the medication works. Because of these risks, if you’re able to get pregnant, you should use birth control while taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib) and for 2 weeks after the last dose. Let your provider know right away if you become pregnant while taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib).

                  risk-warning

                  Serious reaction to radiation

                  • Risk factors: Previous radiation therapy

                    People who take Zelboraf (vemurafenib) and receive radiation therapy for cancer treatment are at risk for having a reaction at the site where they received the radiation. This reaction is called radiation recall. It can happen if you’ve had radiation before, during, or after treatment with Zelboraf (vemurafenib). The reaction happens most commonly on the skin, but it can occur in any organ that has gotten radiation. These reactions can range from mild (e.g., rash, dry skin) to life-threatening (e.g., severe wounds, bleeding). Talk to your provider if you’re taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib) and you’ve had radiation therapy.

                    risk-warning

                    Kidney failure

                    • Risk factors: Kidney problems

                      Some people taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib) develop higher levels of creatinine in their blood, which can suggest kidney damage. Most times, these elevations in creatinine levels are mild. But in some cases, there can be serious kidney damage, including kidney failure. You might not have any symptoms if your kidneys aren’t working as well. For this reason, your provider will check your kidney function regularly with lab tests while you’re taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib).

                      risk-warning

                      Serious hand and foot conditions

                      Though uncommon, some people taking Zelboraf (vemurafenib) have experienced changes in their hands or feet. One condition, called Dupuytren’s contracture, causes the fingers to bend toward the palm. Another condition, called plantar fibromatosis, causes tissue growth on the bottom of the foot. These conditions can be painful and lead to difficulty walking. Most cases were mild or moderate, but sometimes can be severe and affect daily life. If you notice any changes to your hands or feet, contact your provider right away.

                      dosage

                      Zelboraf (vemurafenib) dosage forms

                      Typical dosing for Zelboraf (vemurafenib)

                      The usual dose is 960 mg (four 240 mg tablets) by mouth every 12 hours.

                      interactions

                      Interactions between Zelboraf (vemurafenib) and other drugs

                      Zelboraf (vemurafenib) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Zelboraf (vemurafenib). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                      Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                      Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                      alternatives

                      What are alternatives to Zelboraf (vemurafenib)?

                      There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Zelboraf (vemurafenib). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                      Zelboraf (vemurafenib)
                      Used for:
                      • Melanoma with a certain BRAF mutation that has spread (metastatic) or can’t be removed by surgery

                      • Erdheim-Chester disease (ECD) with a certain BRAF mutation

                      Used for:
                      Used for:
                      • Melanoma with certain BRAF mutations

                      • Metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with a certain BRAF mutation, used with Mekinist (trametinib)

                      • Metastatic anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) with a certain BRAF mutation, used with Mekinist (trametinib)

                      • Solid tumors with a certain BRAF mutation that have spread (metastatic) or can’t be removed by surgery, used with Mekinist (trametinib)

                      • Low-grade glioma (LGG) with a certain BRAF mutation, used with Mekinist (trametinib)

                      images

                      Zelboraf (vemurafenib) images

                      Pink Vem - Zelboraf 240mg Tablet
                      This medicine is Pink Tablet Imprinted With "Vem".Pink Vem - Zelboraf 240mg Tablet

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                      References

                      Best studies we found

                      Al-Akchar, M., et al. (2022). Long QT syndrome. StatPearls.

                      Al-Khatib, S. M., et al. (2003). What clinicians should know about the QT interval. Journal of the American Medical Association.

                      American Cancer Society. (2019). Chemotherapy safety.

                      View All References (22)

                      American Cancer Society. (2022). Gene changes and cancer.

                      American Kidney Fund. (n.d.). Serum creatinine test for kidney disease.

                      American Society for Surgery of the Hand. (2021). Dupuytren's contracture.

                      Boussemart, L., et al. (2013). Vemurafenib and radiosensitization. Journal of the American Medical Association Dermatology.

                      Burris, H. A., III., et al. (2010). Radiation recall with anticancer agents. The Oncologist.

                      Dika, E., et al. (2016). Hair and nail adverse events during treatment with targeted therapies for metastatic melanoma. European Journal of Dermatology.

                      Flores, B., et al. (2017). Hemostasis, bleeding and thrombosis in liver disease. Journal of Translational Science.

                      Genentech, Inc. (2023). Zelboraf- vemurafenib tablet, film coated [package insert]. DailyMed.

                      Goyal, G., et al. (2020). Erdheim-Chester disease: Consensus recommendations for evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment in the molecular era. Blood.

                      Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. (2022). Erdheim-Chester disease.

                      National Cancer Institute. (n.d.). BRAF V600 mutation.

                      National Comprehensive Cancer Network. (2023). Melanoma.

                      National Eye Institute. (2023). Uveitis.

                      National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2022). Long QT syndrome.

                      National Organization for Rare Disorders. (2023). Erdheim Chester disease.

                      Piraccini, B. M., et al. (2015). RASopathic alopecia: Hair changes associated with vemurafenib therapy. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.

                      Proietti, I., et al. (2020). BRAF inhibitors: Molecular targeting and immunomodulatory actions. Cancers.

                      Rossi, A., et al. (2017). Chemotherapy-induced alopecia management: Clinical experience and practical advice. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.

                      Sabry, A. O., et al. (2023). Papilloma. StatPearls.

                      Salzmann, M., et al. (2020). Arthralgia induced by BRAF inhibitor therapy in melanoma patients. Cancers.

                      Wanchoo, R., et al. (2016). Renal effects of BRAF inhibitors: A systematic review by the Cancer and the Kidney International Network. Clinical Kidney Journal.

                      Young, J. R., et al. (2018). The etiology, evaluation, and management of plantar fibromatosis. Orthopedic Research and Reviews.

                      GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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