Cotellic

Generic name:cobimetinib [ KOE-bi-ME-ti-nib ]
Drug class:Multikinase inhibitors

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 25, 2021.

What is Cotellic?

Cotellic is a cancer medicine that interferes with the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body.

Cotellic is used to treat a certain type of metastatic melanoma (skin cancer) that has spread to other parts of the body and cannot be removed with surgery.

Cotellic is usually given together with another medicine called vemurafenib (Zelboraf).

Cotellic is used only if your tumor has a specific genetic marker, for which your doctor will test.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Cotellic if you are allergic to cobimetinib.

To make sure Cotellic is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• heart disease, heart rhythm disorder;

• a history of eye problems (especially a problem with your retina);

• liver or kidney disease;

• skin problems not related to melanoma;

• a muscle disorder;

• a bleeding or blood clotting disorder such as hemophilia; or

• a condition for which you take a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven).

Using Cotellic may increase your risk of developing other types of skin cancer. Ask your doctor about your specific risk.

Do not use Cotellic if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Use effective birth control while you are using this medication and for at least 2 weeks after your last dose.

It is not known whether cobimetinib passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not breast-feed while taking Cotellic, and for 2 weeks after your last dose.

How should I take Cotellic?

Take Cotellic exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor will perform blood tests to make sure you have the correct tumor type to be treated with cobimetinib.

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use Cotellic in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Read all patient information, medication guides, and instruction sheets provided to you. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Cotellic is given in a 28-day treatment cycle. You may need to use the medicine only during the first 21 days of each cycle. Your doctor will determine how long to treat you with cobimetinib.

Do not change your doses or medication schedule without your doctor's advice.

You may take Cotellic with or without food.

Check your skin on a regular basis while you are using Cotellic. Tell your doctor if you notice any new skin symptoms such as redness, sores that will not heal, a new wart, or a mole that has changed in size or color.

Your heart function may need to be checked with an electro...