TAFINLAR + MEKINIST - Getting started | Ask Alia

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TAFINLAR + MEKINIST

Your doctor chose TAFINLAR + MEKINIST because this targeted combination treatment works together to block the overactive signal at two points in the pathway, stopping abnormal cell growth and allowing normal processes to take place.
  • TAFINLAR inhibits the protein produced by the mutated BRAF
  • MEKINIST inhibits the activity of MEK1 and MEK2, two proteins which are activated by mutated BRAF
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How do I take TAFINLAR + MEKINIST?

TAFINLAR + MEKINIST is a daily oral treatment taken at home. You do not need to come to an infusion centre for this medication, but your doctor will still schedule regular check-ins.


Always take TAFINLAR + MEKINIST exactly as your doctor has told you to. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure. Take TAFINLAR + MEKINIST for as long as your doctor recommends.


The recommended daily dose of TAFINLAR + MEKINIST is:

  • TAFINLAR 150 mg (two 75 mg capsules) twice daily, about 12 hours apart
  • MEKINIST 2 mg once daily, at the same time of the morning or evening dose of TAFINLAR
taking TAF/MEK

It is important to take TAFINLAR + MEKINIST on an empty stomach because food may affect the way TAFINLAR + MEKINIST are absorbed into your body and how effectively they work.

Swallow the TAFINLAR capsules whole with a full glass of water, one after the other. Swallow the MEKINIST tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not open, crush or chew the medicine.

Take TAFINLAR at about the same time each day, about 12 hours apart (e.g. morning, evening). Take MEKINIST with either the morning or evening dose of TAFINLAR. Take MEKINIST at about the same time each day.

Find a time that is convenient for you and stick to it. Schedule calendar alerts, use reminder stickers, organise your medication for the week in a pillbox, or ask a family member to help you remember.

TAFINLAR + MEKINIST dosing diary download
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What should I do if I forget a dose?

TAFINLAR
  • If your missed dose is less than 6 hours late, take it as soon as you remember
  • If your missed dose is more than 6 hours late, skip that dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
MEKINIST
  • If your missed dose is less than 12 hours late, take it as soon as you remember
  • If your missed dose is more than 12 hours late, skip that dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
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What should I do if I take too much TAFINLAR or MEKINIST?

If you think you, or someone you care for, have taken too much TAFINLAR (or MEKINIST), you may need urgent medical attention.

You should immediately:

  • phone the Poisons Information Centre (by calling 13 11 26), or
  • contact your doctor, or
  • go to the Emergency Department at your nearest hospital.

You should do this even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning. If possible, take the TAFINLAR + MEKINIST pills with you.

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How to store 
TAFINLAR + MEKINIST

Storage conditions for TAFINLAR and MEKINIST may differ, always follow the instructions on the pack.
  • Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Keep both TAFINLAR and MEKINIST away from moisture, heat, or sunlight; for example, do not store them:
    • in the bathroom or near a sink, or
    • in the car or on windowsills
  • Do not remove the package of silica gel (or desiccant) from the TAFINLAR or MEKINIST bottle.

Speak to your pharmacist if you have any questions about storing your medication.

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Important treatment information

Your oncologist or oncology nurse is the best person to give you advice on your treatment.

The information on this website has been adapted from the TAFINLAR and MEKINIST Consumer Medicine Information. Consumer Medicine Information is available from: www.novartis.com/au-en/products/consumer-information

 ▼ This medicinal product is subject to additional monitoring in Australia. This will allow for quick identification of new safety information. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse events at www.tga.gov.au/reporting-problems.

©2026 Novartis Pharmaceuticals Australia Pty Limited 
ABN 18 004 244 160. Level 25, 155 Miller Street North Sydney, NSW 2060. AU-30486. Ward7 NOIM37158M. June 2026.

References: 

  1. Cancer Australia. Lung cancer in Australia statistics. www.canceraustralia.gov.au/cancer-types/lung-cancer/lung-cancer-australia-statistics (accessed June 2026).
  2. TAFINLAR Australian approved Consumer Medicine Information.
  3. MEKINIST Australian approved Consumer Medicine Information.
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