Cotellic (Cobimetinib) for Melanoma

Overview
Cotellic is a prescription medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat advanced melanoma. This type of melanoma can’t be removed by surgery, has spread to other parts of the body, and is found in people with a specific gene mutation (gene change) called BRAF V600E or V600K. Cotellic is also known by its drug name, cobimetinib.

Cotellic is a type of drug called a kinase inhibitor and is believed to work by blocking certain proteins that cancer cells need to grow and divide.

How do I take it?
Cotellic is taken by mouth, with once-daily doses. It can be taken with or without food. Cotellic should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Side effects
The most common side effects of Cotellic include diarrhea, sensitivity to light, nausea, fever, and vomiting. 

Rare side but serious effects of Cotellic may include developing new cancers (skin cancer and other types), major bleeding events, heart problems (especially when used with vemurafenib), severe skin reactions, eye problems like serous retinopathy (fluid buildup in the retina) and vision blockages, liver issues, muscle breakdown, and extreme sensitivity to light. In addition, Cotellic can be harmful to unborn babies and should not be taken by those who are breastfeeding.

For more details about this treatment, visit:

Cotellic (Cobimetinib) Tablets, for Oral Use — U.S. Food and Drug Administration