What is Cotellic?
Cotellic (generic name Cobimetinib) is a prescription medication used to treat advanced melanoma, particularly in combination with Zelboraf (vemurafenib) for patients whose melanoma has spread to other parts of the body. It is part of a class of drugs known as MEK inhibitors, which work by blocking specific proteins involved in the abnormal growth and spread of cancer cells. Cotellic plays a crucial role in targeted cancer therapy by slowing down the progression of melanoma and helping to improve overall survival rates.
Melanoma is an aggressive form of skin cancer that can spread rapidly. Cotellic, when used with Zelboraf, provides a dual mechanism of action, making it a powerful treatment for individuals with metastatic melanoma who need a more comprehensive approach to manage their disease.
How Does Cotellic Work?
Cotellic targets and inhibits the MEK proteins, which are part of the MAPK signaling pathway that plays a crucial role in cancer cell growth. In melanoma cells, this pathway is often overactive, leading to uncontrolled cell division and tumor progression. By blocking MEK, Cotellic effectively slows down cancer cell proliferation, reduces tumor size, and helps prevent further spread of the disease.
When taken alongside Zelboraf (vemurafenib), which targets the BRAF mutation commonly found in melanoma cells, Cotellic provides a combination therapy that addresses both key signaling pathways involved in melanoma growth. This dual approach has been shown to significantly improve treatment outcomes, helping to prolong progression-free survival.
Benefits of Cotellic
- Effective for Advanced Melanoma: Cotellic, in combination with Zelboraf, has shown significant effectiveness in treating advanced melanoma, especially for patients whose melanoma has spread.
- Dual Targeted Treatment: Cotellic targets MEK, while Zelboraf targets BRAF, addressing two critical pathways that drive the growth of melanoma cells.
- Slows Tumor Growth and Spread: Cotellic helps prevent the progression of melanoma by inhibiting cancer cell growth, slowing tumor expansion, and reducing the risk of metastasis.
- Improves Survival Rates: Clinical studies have demonstrated that combining Cotellic with Zelboraf results in better overall survival outcomes and progression-free survival for patients.
- Convenient Oral Tablets: Cotellic comes in easy-to-swallow oral tablets, which simplifies the treatment regimen compared to other therapies that require injections or infusions.
- Well-Tolerated: Many patients tolerate Cotellic well, and side effects are generally manageable, especially when used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Cotellic is available in the following form:
- Oral Tablets: Each tablet contains 20 mg of cobimetinib. The standard dosing regimen is one tablet daily, typically taken in combination with Zelboraf.
How to Use Cotellic
- Take Cotellic exactly as prescribed: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. The dosage and schedule may vary depending on individual needs and treatment goals.
- Swallow the tablet whole: Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet. Taking it with a full glass of water helps with absorption.
- Consistency is key: Try to take Cotellic at the same time each day to help remember your dose and ensure optimal results.
- Missed dose: If you miss a dose of Cotellic, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
Cotellic Misdose
If you miss a dose of Cotellic:
- Take the dose as soon as you remember unless it’s nearly time for your next dose.
- Skip the missed dose if it’s close to your next scheduled dose time.
- Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose. Always consult your healthcare provider if you are unsure about what to do after missing a dose.
Possible Side Effects of Cotellic
Like all medications, Cotellic may cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Some of the common and more serious side effects include:
Common Side Effects
- Diarrhea: This is one of the most common side effects and can often be managed with medications to control symptoms.
- Fatigue or tiredness: Some patients experience a general feeling of weakness or low energy.
- Nausea and vomiting: Mild nausea and occasional vomiting may occur, especially during the first few weeks of treatment.
- Decreased appetite: Some individuals may notice a reduction in appetite, which can affect eating habits and nutrition.
- Skin Rash: Rashes, often mild to moderate, may develop as part of the treatment process.
Serious Side Effects
- Vision problems: Changes in vision, eye inflammation, or eye infections are possible and should be reported to your doctor immediately.
- Severe skin reactions: Blistering, peeling, or severe irritation of the skin may occur in some individuals.
- Liver problems: Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or severe abdominal pain could indicate liver issues. Immediate medical attention is required.
- Heart problems: Symptoms such as irregular heartbeat or chest pain could indicate cardiac issues and should be investigated right away.
If you experience any of these serious side effects, seek medical attention immediately.
Cotellic Overdose
An overdose of Cotellic can result in serious health consequences. If you suspect you have taken more than the prescribed amount, contact a healthcare professional immediately. Overdose symptoms may include:
- Severe nausea and vomiting
- Persistent diarrhea
- Skin or eye complications
How to Store Cotellic
- Store at room temperature (68°F to 77°F) in a cool, dry place.
- Keep the medication tightly sealed in its original container, protected from light and moisture.
- Keep out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
Where to Buy Cotellic Online
You can buy Cotellic online from 365 Script Care, offering a secure, reliable, and affordable way to purchase your medication. We provide fast shipping directly to your door, ensuring your treatment remains uninterrupted.
Enjoy 10% off your first order with promo code FIRST10OFF at checkout.
At 365 Script Care, we are committed to delivering high-quality medications and outstanding customer service. Whether you are starting treatment with Cotellic or need a refill, we make it easy and convenient for you to get the medications you need. Trust us to provide you with safe, affordable, and timely delivery of your prescriptions.
Contact Information
For support with your medication order or any other questions, please contact us via our toll-free number at 1-888-821-0245. You can also send a fax to 1-888-338-6690 or email us at info@365scriptcare.com. Our dedicated team is available Monday through Friday from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm CST, and on weekends from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm CST, ensuring that we are here for you every day of the year.
For swift assistance, we encourage you to contact our customer support during business hours so you can interact directly with our team for immediate help with orders, shipping inquiries, or product information.
All orders for medications sourced from Canada take 10-14 business days to receive from the date shipped. For all internationally sourced medications, it may take 15-20 business days to receive from the date shipped. For any issues regarding your tracking or receiving your order, please contact the toll-free 1-800 number to request to speak to a member of the loyalty team. A member of the loyalty team will be glad to assist you.
FAQs
Inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions or medications before starting Cotellic.
Cotellic is indicated for use in specific types of melanoma and may not be suitable for everyone. Your healthcare provider can determine if it’s the right treatment for you.
Cotellic targets specific pathways within cancer cells, inhibiting their growth and spread.
