Binimetinib
Cotellic (cobimetinib) is a prescription medication classified as a MEK inhibitor used to treat certain types of melanoma. It is specifically indicated for patients with BRAF V600E or V600K mutation-positive unresectable or metastatic melanoma, and is typically used in combination with another drug called vemurafenib. The medication works by blocking abnormal signals in cancer cells that promote their growth and division.
Cotellic is a targeted therapy used with vemurafenib to treat advanced melanoma with specific genetic mutations.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1722371
- Generic
- Cotellic
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Cotellic is used to treat adults with unresectable (cannot be removed by surgery) or metastatic melanoma that has tested positive for the BRAF V600E or V600K gene mutation. It is always used in combination with vemurafenib (Zelboraf), not as a standalone treatment.
Cotellic is a MEK inhibitor that blocks the activity of MEK1 and MEK2 proteins, which are part of the MAPK signaling pathway. In melanoma cells with BRAF mutations, this pathway is overactive, driving cancer cell growth and survival. By inhibiting MEK, Cotellic helps slow tumor progression when used alongside vemurafenib, which targets the BRAF mutation itself.
Cotellic is typically taken as one 20 mg tablet twice daily, with dosing cycles as directed by a physician. Common side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, fever, and photosensitivity. Patients should have their BRAF mutation status confirmed through testing before starting treatment and should be monitored for potential heart, liver, or eye problems during therapy. Sun protection is strongly recommended while taking this medication.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy