Why do we need a new BRAF-MEK inhibitor combination in melanoma?

Abstract

Despite the increasing role of immunotherapy, BRAF/MEK inhibitor combinations have still a central role in the treatment of BRAF V600-mutant melanoma. Encorafenib-binimetinib is the third BRAF-MEK inhibitor combination approved for the metastatic melanoma with BRAF V600 mutation. Data from phase III trial demonstrated high antitumor efficacy and good tolerability of encorafenib-binimetinib. Compared to other combinations (dabrafenib-trametinib, vemurafenib-cobimetinib) the new combination showed favourable results in terms of the low rates of pyrexia and photosensitivity. Trials with triplet regimens that combine encorafenib-binimetinib with immunotherapy or a third targeted agent in an effort to overcome mechanisms of resistance to BRAF/MEK inhibition are ongoing.