Vemurafenib is a drug targeting a specific gene mutation (called BRAF V600) seen in some melanomas. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer. Vemurafenib is a type of cancer treatment called a cancer growth blocker. The gene mutation (BRAF V600) seen in some melanomas leads to the production of a mutated (BRAF) protein, by blocking the mutated protein the treatment stops the melanoma cells from growing and dividing.Vemurafenib is given orally as a tablet. It is already licenced for certain melanoma patients, but is currently being trialled as a new treatment option for patients who have had surgery but are at high risk of their melanoma returning. Vemurafenib could potentially improve the survival time of these patients.
Vemurafenib (Zelboraf) for BRAF V600 mutation positive melanoma; completely resected but at high risk of recurrence
