Cardiovascular Adverse Events Associated With BRAF and MEK Inhibitors

Abstract

Key Points Question What is the rate of cardiovascular adverse events among patients with melanoma treated with BRAF and MEK inhibitors compared with patients treated with BRAF inhibitor monotherapy? Findings In this systematic review and meta-analysis of 5 randomized clinical trials including 2317 patients, treatment with BRAF and MEK inhibitors was associated with a higher risk of pulmonary embolism, decrease in left ventricular ejection fraction, and arterial hypertension compared with treatment with BRAF inhibitor monotherapy. The risks of myocardial infarction, atrial fibrillation, and QTc prolongation were similar between groups. Meaning These findings demonstrate an association of cardiovascular adverse events with BRAF and MEK inhibitor therapy, which may guide clinical cardio-oncological management.