Dabrafenib
Tafinlar (dabrafenib) is a targeted cancer medication known as a BRAF kinase inhibitor. It is prescribed for the treatment of certain cancers with specific genetic mutations, primarily melanoma and other malignancies that test positive for the BRAF V600E or V600K mutations. This medication is typically used when the cancer cannot be removed by surgery or has spread to other parts of the body.
Tafinlar is a prescription BRAF inhibitor used to treat specific cancers with BRAF mutations, most commonly melanoma and some thyroid cancers.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1425223
- Generic
- Tafinlar
- 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.
Tafinlar is used to treat adults and children with unresectable (cannot be removed by surgery) or metastatic melanoma with BRAF V600E or V600K mutations. It is also indicated for BRAF V600E-mutant metastatic anaplastic thyroid cancer and may be used for other BRAF V600-mutant solid tumors as determined by molecular testing.
Tafinlar contains the active ingredient dabrafenib, which is a kinase inhibitor that blocks the activity of certain mutated BRAF proteins. In cancers with BRAF mutations, this abnormal signaling promotes uncontrolled cell growth and division. By inhibiting these mutated kinases, Tafinlar helps slow or stop the growth of cancer cells.
Tafinlar is a prescription-only medication that should be taken exactly as directed by a healthcare provider. Before starting treatment, patients must undergo testing to confirm their tumor has the specific BRAF mutation the medication targets. Common side effects may include skin reactions, fever, fatigue, headache, and joint pain. Tafinlar may also increase the risk of new skin cancers and should be used with appropriate sun protection. It may be used alone or in combination with other cancer medications such as trametinib.
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 August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy