Does the targeted drug dabrafenib/dabrafenib need to be refrigerated?

Dabrafenib is a BRAF inhibitor commonly used to treat BRAF V600E mutated melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and thyroid cancer. As an oral targeted drug, its storage conditions are crucial to the stability of its efficacy, so patients must strictly follow the guidelines during storage and administration.

According to the package insert, dabrafenib capsules are optimally stored at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) and are allowed to be stored within a short temperature range of 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). This means it is safe to store at normal room temperature and does not require refrigeration. However, if the storage environment exceeds 30°C, the stability of the drug may be affected, thereby reducing the efficacy.

The capsule formulation of dabrafenib contains moisture-sensitive ingredients, so a desiccant is usually placed inside each bottle to prevent moisture. Patients should keep the desiccant in the bottle and tighten the bottle cap after each dose to avoid humidity in the air affecting the quality of the medicine. At the same time, medicines should be stored in their original bottles and avoid being poured into medicine boxes or other containers to avoid exposure to inappropriate environments.

It should be noted that dabrafenib cannot be refrigerated or frozen, because too low a temperature may affect the structural stability of the capsule shell and lead to drug degradation. In addition, avoid placing medicines in environments with high temperature, humidity, or direct sunlight, such as bathrooms, kitchens, or places near windows, to prevent medicines from deteriorating due to changes in temperature and humidity.

For patients who need to go out or travel for a long time, it is recommended to carry the medicine with them at room temperature and try to avoid leaving it in a high-temperature closed environment (such as a car) for a long time. If traveling to hot or humid areas, consider using a portable medicine storage box and keep medicines away from moisture and direct light.

Reference materials:https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB08912