Precautions when using bimetinib/bemetinib

Binimetinib is a targeted drug mainly used to treat melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with BRAF V600E or V600K mutations. It inhibits the proliferation of tumor cells by inhibiting MEK1/2 kinase. During the treatment process, patients should pay attention to the following potential risks and side effects.

1. New primary malignant tumors: When bimetinib is used in combination with encorafenib (Encorafenib), new primary malignant tumors may occur, especially cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and papilloma. Therefore, patients should conduct regular skin examinations before, during and after treatment to detect and deal with any abnormalities in a timely manner.

2. Cardiomyopathy: Cardiomyopathy is a potential risk in bimetinib treatment. Patients may develop left ventricular dysfunction manifested by reduced ejection fraction. Before and during treatment, especially in patients with poor heart function, echocardiography or MUGA scans should be performed regularly to assess the ejection fraction of the heart. If heart function is affected, treatment may need to be adjusted.

3. Venous thromboembolism Bimetinib may increase the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), especially pulmonary embolism. Patients should pay close attention to whether symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath occur. If such symptoms occur, they need to seek medical examination in time.

4. Eye toxicity: Eye toxicity is also common in bimetinib treatment, including serous retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, uveitis, etc. Patients should have regular eye examinations during treatment, especially if vision changes occur, as early as possible. If you have acute vision loss, you should receive an ophthalmological evaluation immediately.

5. Interstitial lung disease/Pneumonia: Some patients with melanoma treated with bimetinib may develop interstitial lung disease (ILD) or pneumonia. When new or gradually worsening respiratory symptoms occur, the possibility of ILD needs to be considered and pulmonary evaluation should be performed promptly.

6. Hepatotoxicity: Bimetinib may cause abnormal liver function, manifested as** elevation of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST)**. Patients need to have their liver function tested regularly before and during treatment, especially for patients with existing hepatic insufficiency and should be used with caution.

7. Rhabdomyolysis: Rhabdomyolysis is another problem that may occur during the use of bimetinib, which is manifested by**increased serum creatine phosphokinase (CPK)**. During treatment, patients should regularly monitor CPK levels and adjust the dose or suspend treatment if necessary.

8. Bleeding: Gastrointestinal bleeding is a common adverse reaction during bimetinib treatment and may even lead to intracranial hemorrhage, especially in patients with brain metastases. Patients should be alert to symptoms such as blood in the stool, melena, or headache, and seek medical attention promptly.

9. Embryo - Fetotoxicity: Bimetinib may have toxic effects on the fetus, and its use by pregnant women may cause miscarriage or embryotoxicity. During use, pregnant women should avoid using the drug, and females of childbearing potential are advised to use effective contraception during treatment and for 30 days after the last dose.

Although bimetinib has achieved remarkable results in treating BRAF mutation-related cancers, there are still many potential side effects and risks during its treatment. Patients should conduct regular monitoring according to the doctor's recommendations to detect and respond to possible health problems in a timely manner to ensure the safety and effectiveness of treatment.

Keyword tags: bimetinib, bemetinib,Binimetinib, side effects, ocular toxicity, venous thromboembolism, liver toxicity, rhabdomyolysis, BRAF mutation, embryofetal toxicity

Reference materials:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Binimetinib