Used primarily in the treatment of certain types of cancer, particularly neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) with inoperable plexiform neurofibromas in pediatric patients. It functions by inhibiting MEK, a key protein in the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway, which is often overactive in cancers. By blocking this pathway, it helps slow or stop tumor growth. It is also investigated and applied in melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer where mutations in the pathway drive disease progression. Its oral formulation allows for outpatient treatment, improving patient convenience and quality of life.