Imatinib mesylate

Imatinib mesylate belongs to the class of medicines known as tyrosine kinase inhibitors. It is used in the treatment of blood cancer (chronic myeloid leukaemia and Acute lymphocytic leukemia) and gastrointestinal stromal tumor.

Imatinib mesylate should be taken with food, but better to have it same time every day to get the most benefit. You should continue to take it as long as your doctor advises for it. The duration of treatment varies according to your need and response to treatment. Taking it in the wrong way or taking too much can cause very serious side effects. It may take several weeks or months for you to see or feel the benefits but do not stop taking it unless your doctor tells you to.

The most common side effects of this medicine include edema, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, musculoskeletal pain, diarrhea, rash, fatigue, and abdominal pain. Let your doctor know if you experience unexpected rapid weight gain. Your doctor may advise for regular monitoring of blood cells and liver function while you are taking this medicine. Do not drive or do anything requiring mental focus if you experience dizziness and blurry vision.

Many other medicines can affect, or be affected by, this medicine so let your healthcare team know all medications you are using. This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. The use of effective contraception by both males and females during treatment is important to avoid pregnancy.

• Blood cancer (Chronic myeloid leukaemia)
• Blood cancer (Acute lymphocytic leukemia)
• Gastrointestinal stromal tumour

Blood cancer (Chronic myeloid leukaemia)
Blood cancer, also called leukemia, is a cancer of the blood-forming tissues, that decreases the body's ability to fight infection. Imatinib mesylate kills or stops the growth of cancer cells and also prevents the multiplication of cancer cells. It is a potent and very toxic medicine and you should discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. You should avoid drinking alcohol while having this treatment and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Blood cancer (Acute lymphocytic leukemia)
Blood cancer, also called leukemia, is a cancer of the blood-forming tissues, that decreases the body's ability to fight infection. Imatinib mesylate kills or stops the growth of cancer cells and also prevents the multiplication of cancer cells. It is a potent and very toxic medicine and you should discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. You should avoid drinking alcohol while having this treatment and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Gastrointestinal stromal tumour
A gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) is a type of tumor that occurs most commonly in the stomach or small intestine. The tumors develop into the specialized cells called interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs). Imatinib mesylate helps to kill the cancer cells and also stops their further growth and spread. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to get the most benefit.

Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them

Common side effects of Chemotinib

• Edema (swelling)
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Muscle cramp
• Musculoskeletal (bone, muscle or joint) pain
• Diarrhea
• Rash
• Fatigue
• Abdominal pain

Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Imatinib mesylate is to be taken with food.

Imatinib mesylate is an anti-cancer medication. A protein enzyme, bcr-abl tyrosine kinase, responsible for the growth of abnormal proliferation of cancer cells. This medicine inhibits the proliferation and induces apoptosis (planned cell death) in bcr-abl positive cells (cancer cells). This is how it works to stop or slow the spread of cancer.

• Always take it with food and a full glass of water to prevent nausea.
• It may cause dizziness or blurred vision. Do not drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you.
• Water retention and swelling are very common side effects of Imatinib mesylate. Notify your doctor if you have unexpected rapid weight gain.
• Do not change the dose or discontinue use without consulting your doctor.
• Notify your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including over the counter medicines and dietary supplements.
• Your doctor may get regular blood tests done to monitor your liver function and the number of blood cells in your blood.

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