What is Tafinlar used for?

Tafinlar is available in two strengths: 50 milligrams (mg) and 75 mg. Tafinlar is used in adults as part of a combination* treatment for a specific type of non-small cell lung cancer that’s metastatic. (Metastatic cancer has spread to other parts of the body.) The recommended dosage of Tafinlar for this purpose is 150 mg twice daily.

How long does Tafinlar last?

Tafinlar is typically prescribed as a long-term treatment. If your doctor prescribes Tafinlar as adjuvant* therapy for melanoma, you’ll usually take it for up to 1 year. For the other conditions Tafinlar treats, you’ll likely take the drug as long as it’s safe and effective for you.

Does Tafinlar contain dabrafenib?

Tafinlar contains the active drug dabrafenib. Tafinlar is a type of targeted therapy. Specifically, Tafinlar belongs to a drug class called BRAF kinase inhibitors. Tafinlar comes as an oral capsule. It’s available in two strengths: 50 milligrams (mg) and 75 mg.

How does Tafinlar affect BRAF?

BRAF is a protein made by the BRAF gene. Gene mutations (abnormal changes) called BRAF V600E and BRAF V600K can affect the BRAF protein. When this occurs, it can abnormally increase the growth and spread of cancer cells. Tafinlar blocks abnormal BRAF proteins from sending signals that tell cancer cells to grow and spread.