Description
Generic Name: imatinib mesylate
Drug Class: kinase inhibitor
Indications
Gleevec is an oral prescription drug used to treat Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia and Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia. It is also prescribed to treat conditions, like myelodysplastic or myeloproliferative diseases, aggressive systemic mastocytosis, hypereosinophilic syndrome, chronic eosinophilic leukemia, dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, and malignant gastrointestinal stromal tumors.
Dosage Forms
This is available in Gleevec 100 mg, and 400 mg tablets.
Gleevec Mechanism of Action
This protein-tyrosine kinase inhibitor works by inhibiting the constitutive abnormal tyrosine kinase created by the Philadelphia chromosome abnormality. It also inhibits the proliferation while inducing apoptosis in bcr-abl positive cell lines. Additionally, it can inhibit colony formation in assays.
How to Take Gleevec
Before using Gleevec, it is necessary to read the information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. You must not take Gleevec unless you’ve spoken to your doctor and have understood the uses and directions.
Gleevec is only meant to be taken by mouth. This is usually prescribed once or twice a day. It should be taken with a meal. Swallow the imatinib tablet and drink a full glass of water right after. If necessary, you may divide this scored tablet. If you are having difficulty swallowing the entire tablet, you may also dissolve it in a glass of water or apple juice.
Make a dosing schedule. Do not increase or decrease your doses. You should also not take this oral drug more frequently than advised.
Gleevec Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Dizziness
-Headache
-Nausea
-Vomiting
-Drowsiness
-Stomach upset
-Blurred vision
-Muscle or joint pain
-Muscle cramps
Severe Side Effects:
-Sudden or unexplained weight gain
-Unusual tiredness
-Easy or unusual bleeding
-Swelling
-Fast heartbeat
-Shortness of breath
-Persistent vomiting
-Loss of appetite
-Severe abdominal pain
-Yellowish eyes and skin
-Persistent fever
-Persistent sore throat
-Tumor lysis syndrome
-Painful urination
-Flank pain
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Gleevec.
If you experience severe or persistent adverse reactions, discontinue medication and call your doctor or health care professional.
Warnings and Precautions
Do not take this prescription drug if you have a known allergy to imatinib or any inactive ingredients the tablet may contain. Always be watchful for any signs of serious allergic reactions. If this happens, stop taking Gleevec and seek emergency medical help immediately.
This medication may be contraindicated for people with a history of heart failure or any heart problem, bleeding problems, thyroid condition, liver disease, or kidney disease. Also, due to possible drug interactions, you should discuss all the prescription medications, nonprescription medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
This oral medication is known to increase the risk of bleeding. You must practice safety caution when using sharp objects, such as razors, knives, and nail cutters. You must also avoid contact sports or any similar activities that can cause bruising and bleeding. You should avoid Intramuscular injections as much as possible.
A weakened defense system can be caused by this kinase inhibitor. This drug can possibly worsen any current infection or make you more likely to get an infection. Do not come in contact with people who have or have recently acquired infection, such as flu, chickenpox, or measles, and have recently been immunized or vaccinated.
Dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision are among the common adverse effects of this medication. When driving or doing tasks that would need alertness, practice safety caution when doing tasks that would need alertness. You must also limit your consumption of alcoholic drinks.
Pregnant moms must avoid this medication because of the harm that it can cause to unborn babies. Since this can also be absorbed through the skin and lungs, pregnant women are advised not to touch this medication or breathe the dust from it. The same goes for breastfeeding moms. This should also be avoided as it is known to pass into the breastmilk and bring undesirable effects to nursing infants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How does Gleevec work?
This kinase inhibitor work by either stopping or slowing the growth of specific cancer cells. It inhibits the enzyme known as tyrosine kinase.
Does Gleevec lower the immune system?
Imatinib can weaken one’s immune response. Talk to your doctor about ways to deal with a weakened immune system.
Can Gleevec cure GIST?
According to clinical trials on Gleevec & GIST, this medication is a proven effective precision cancer treatment. It can help treat GIST in both advanced and adjuvant settings.
How successful is Gleevec in treating CML?
Studies on CML & Gleevec show that the survival rate of patients using this medication is significantly higher. This medication can effectively kill CML cells.
What are the long-term side effects of Gleevec?
Gleevec side effects (long-term use): congestive heart failure and left-sided heart failure. It is important to take this drug with caution.
Is Gleevec still on the market?
This oral medication is still available. You may purchase it from our online pharmacy.
How much does Gleevec cost?
Click here to check the list of prices on this page. Get the best deals when you order your prescription drugs from Pharma Passport.