Imatinib
About Imatinib
Imatinib helps treat both acute and chronic cases of blood cancer i.e. myeloid leukaemia as well as gastrointestinal stromal tumour. This medication comes under the class of anticancer drugs known as tyrosine kinase inhibitors. It works by inhibiting the action of a protein enzyme responsible for the growth of cancer cells. The drug either slows down or stops the spread of cancer by destroying the cancer cells.
The dose and duration of this medication depend on the patient’s age, medical history and the severity of the condition. It is suggested to consume Imatinib with food for maximum benefit. It is important to consume it at the same time each day or follow the guidelines provided by your physician.
Do not stop taking this medicine even if you feel better without informing your doctor as this can lead to serious complications. Take the dose as prescribed by your doctor as this drug can lead to many side effects if consumed inappropriately. These side effects include Rash, Edema, Fatigue, Diarrhea, Muscle pain, Abdominal pain, Joint pain, Nausea, Swelling, Muscle cramp, and Vomiting.
Water retention and swelling are some of the other side effects caused by this drug. You must inform your doctor if you are experiencing a rapid gain in your weight. Frequent monitoring of blood cells and liver function is necessary during the course of treatment. Limiting the consumption of alcohol during the treatment is also important.
It is vital to inform your doctor if you are taking any other medications to avoid any interactions. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should exercise caution and must take this drug only after consulting a doctor. It is advised not to drive or do any physical activity that requires the utmost focus or attention.
Information given here is based on the salt content of the medicine. Uses and effects of the medicine may vary from person to person. It is advisable to consult a General Physician before using this medicine.
What are the uses of Imatinib
Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia
Information given here is based on the salt content of the medicine. Uses and effects of the medicine may vary from person to person. It is advisable to consult a General Physician before using this medicine.
What are the contraindications of Imatinib ?
Information given here is based on the salt content of the medicine. Uses and effects of the medicine may vary from person to person. It is advisable to consult a General Physician before using this medicine.
What are the side effects of Imatinib ?
Severe Diarrhea
Edema (Swelling)
Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain
Rash
Information given here is based on the salt content of the medicine. Uses and effects of the medicine may vary from person to person. It is advisable to consult a General Physician before using this medicine.
Key highlights of Imatinib
Are there any pregnancy warnings?
It should not be used only during pregnancy as there are high chances that the drug can cause harm to the baby. However, in life-threatening conditions, it is necessary to consult a doctor before consuming it.
Is it habit forming?
The drug is not known to show habit-forming tendencies and is generally safe to use.
Are there any breast-feeding warnings?
It is advised to consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are breastfeeding a baby. As per studies, Imatinib may pass into breast milk and might not be safe to be consumed during breastfeeding.
Is It safe with alcohol?
Excessive intake of alcohol should be avoided during the course of medication.
Does this affect kidney function?
Patients with kidney diseases should consult a doctor to know the dose adjustment and must exercise caution.
Does this affect liver function?
Patients with liver impairment should consult a doctor to know the dose adjustment and must exercise caution.
Information given here is based on the salt content of the medicine. Uses and effects of the medicine may vary from person to person. It is advisable to consult a General Physician before using this medicine.
What are the dosage instructions?
Are there any missed dose instructions?
Consume the medicine as soon as you remember about it.
Are there any overdose instructions?
If you have an episode of an overdose, you must seek the help of a doctor with immediate effect.
Information given here is based on the salt content of the medicine. Uses and effects of the medicine may vary from person to person. It is advisable to consult a General Physician before using this medicine.
Where is the Imatinib approved?
India
United States
Japan
Information given here is based on the salt content of the medicine. Uses and effects of the medicine may vary from person to person. It is advisable to consult a General Physician before using this medicine.
How does this medication work?
This drug works by inhibiting the action of a protein enzyme responsible for the growth of cancer cells. It either slows down or stops the spread of cancer by destroying the cancer cells.
Information given here is based on the salt content of the medicine. Uses and effects of the medicine may vary from person to person. It is advisable to consult a General Physician before using this medicine.
Lybrate is a medium to provide our audience with the common information on medicines and does not guarantee its accuracy or exhaustiveness. Even if there is no mention of a warning for any drug or combination, it never means that we are claiming that the drug or combination is safe for consumption without any proper consultation with an expert.
Lybrate does not take responsibility for any aspect of medicines or treatments. If you have any doubts about your medication, we strongly recommend you to see a doctor immediately.
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