Keytruda (pembrolizumab) vs Mektovi (binimetinib)
Keytruda (pembrolizumab) vs Mektovi (binimetinib)
Keytruda (pembrolizumab) is an immune checkpoint inhibitor that works by blocking the PD-1 protein on immune cells, thereby enhancing the body's immune response against cancer cells. Mektovi (binimetinib) is a MEK inhibitor that targets specific enzymes involved in the growth and survival of cancer cells. The choice between Keytruda and Mektovi would depend on the specific type of cancer being treated, its genetic makeup, and the overall treatment plan determined by the healthcare provider, as these medications are used for different indications and work through distinct mechanisms.
Difference between Keytruda and Mektovi
| Metric | Keytruda (pembrolizumab) | Mektovi (binimetinib) |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | Pembrolizumab | Binimetinib |
| Indications | Various types of cancers including melanoma, lung cancer, head and neck cancer, Hodgkin lymphoma, and others | Unresectable or metastatic melanoma with a BRAF V600E or V600K mutation, in combination with encorafenib |
| Mechanism of action | PD-1 blocking antibody that promotes the immune system's response against cancer cells | MEK inhibitor that works by interfering with the MEK proteins involved in cell growth, which can help slow down the growth of cancer cells |
| Brand names | Keytruda | Mektovi |
| Administrative route | Intravenous infusion | Oral |
| Side effects | Fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, decreased appetite, pruritus, diarrhea, nausea, rash, fever, cough, dyspnea, constipation, pain, and abdominal pain | Fatigue, rash, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, arthralgia, and acneiform dermatitis |
| Contraindications | Individuals with a history of severe hypersensitivity reaction to pembrolizumab | None known specifically; however, it should be used with caution in patients with a history of cardiac dysfunction |
| Drug class | Anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody | MEK inhibitor |
| Manufacturer | Merck & Co. | Array BioPharma Inc. (a subsidiary of Pfizer Inc.) |
Efficacy
Keytruda (Pembrolizumab) Efficacy in Skin Cancer
Keytruda, known generically as pembrolizumab, is a highly effective treatment for certain types of skin cancer, particularly advanced melanoma. As an immune checkpoint inhibitor, it works by blocking the PD-1 pathway, which cancer cells often exploit to avoid being attacked by the body's immune system. In clinical trials, Keytruda has shown significant efficacy in shrinking tumors and slowing disease progression in patients with advanced melanoma, including those who have not responded to other treatments. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Keytruda for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma.
In addition to its use in advanced cases, Keytruda has also been approved for the adjuvant treatment of melanoma with involvement of lymph nodes following complete resection, helping to prevent the recurrence of skin cancer. Studies have demonstrated that Keytruda can improve recurrence-free survival in this patient population, making it a valuable option in the management of melanoma at various stages.
Mektovi (Binimetinib) Efficacy in Skin Cancer
Mektovi, or binimetinib, is a targeted therapy that is used to treat skin cancer, particularly advanced melanoma with a specific genetic profile. It is a MEK inhibitor that works by interfering with the MEK proteins, which are part of a signaling pathway that includes BRAF, a gene that can mutate and promote cancer cell growth. Mektovi is specifically indicated for use in combination with encorafenib, another targeted therapy, for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma with a BRAF V600E or V600K mutation, as detected by an FDA-approved test.
The combination of Mektovi and encorafenib has been shown to be effective in prolonging progression-free survival and improving overall survival rates in patients with BRAF-mutant melanoma. Clinical trials have demonstrated that this combination therapy can lead to a significant reduction in tumor size and has a durable response in many patients. The FDA's approval of Mektovi, in combination with encorafenib, has provided an important treatment option for patients with this specific genetic form of melanoma.
Regulatory Agency Approvals
Keytruda
-
European Medical Agency (EMA), European Union
-
Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA
-
Health Canada
-
Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia
-
Medsafe (NZ)
Mektovi
-
European Medical Agency (EMA), European Union
-
Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA
-
Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA), Japan
Access Keytruda or Mektovi today
If Keytruda or Mektovi are not approved or available in your country (e.g. due to supply issues), you can access them via Everyone.org.
How it works
Make an enquiry
Choose the medicine you want to buy, answer a couple of questions, and upload your prescription to speed things up. We’ll get back to you within 24 hours.
Make an enquiry
Choose the medicine you want to buy, answer a couple of questions, and upload your prescription to speed things up. We’ll get back to you within 24 hours.
Breeze through the paperwork
We'll guide you through the required documents for importing unapproved medicine, ensuring you have all the necessary information.
Get a personalized quote
We’ll prepare a quote for you, including medicine costs and any shipping, administrative, or import fees that may apply.
Receive your medicine
Accept the quote and we’ll handle the rest - sourcing and safely delivering your medicine.
Some text on this page has been automatically generated. Speak to your physician before you start a new treatment or medication.
Let's talk
If you have any questions, call us or send us a message through WhatsApp or email:
Contact us