Gleevec (Imatinib) from Maple Leaf Medications.

Description

Gleevec (generic: imatinib mesylate) is an oral medication that treats specific types of cancer such as chronic myelogenous leukemia, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, chronic eosinophilic leukemia, myelodysplastic or myeloproliferative disease, malignant gastrointestinal stromal tumors, and metastatic dermatofibrosarcoma. It is also used to manage immune system disorders, including systemic mastocytosis and hypereosinophilic syndrome. 

The available strengths for this drug: 400 mg and 100 mg pills are available. 

How does Gleevec work? 

This protein-tyrosine kinase inhibitor works by inhibiting the constitutive abnormal tyrosine kinase in myeloid leukemia called bcr-abl tyrosine kinase. It also inhibits tumor growth, apoptosis, and PDGF- (platelet-derived growth factor) and SCF- (stem cell factor) mediated cellular events. 

How to use Gleevec 

To initiate, read the medication information leaflet that comes with this product. Do not take this kinase inhibitor yet if you have not fully understood the drug information and instructions printed in the guide. If you need further medical advice or have queries (i.e., how to use Gleevec, mechanism of action, interactions) you may ask your doctor or pharmacist. 

Take the tablet orally. You have to take this with a meal to avoid abdominal discomfort or stomach upset. Swallow the tablet whole and take it with a full glass (240 mL) of water. It is not recommended that the tablets be broken or eaten. 

Remember to take this oral drug regularly to achieve the best results. To avoid skipping a dosage, create a dosing schedule. Your dosage will depend on medical condition, response to treatment, other medications you are taking, and for children, body size. Do not alter your dose or abruptly stop using this medication to avoid worsening conditions.  

Side effects 

Common side effects: 

• Nausea 
• Drowsiness 
• Dizziness 
• Headache 
• Upset stomach 
• Vomiting 
• Joint pain 
• Muscle cramps 
• Fatigue 
• Blurred vision

In most cases, the side effects brought about by this medication are mild and would only last for a few days. You must call your doctor or any healthcare professional for Gleevec side effects – long-term and worsening. Further, report any severe side effects, including: 

• Unusual bleeding 
• Severe fatigue 
• Shortness of breath 
• Palpitations 
• Severe headache 
• Persistent vomiting 
• Severe blistering skin rashes 
• Yellowish skin or eyes 
• Unexplained weight gain 
• Swelling of the lower extremities 

This is not a full or complete list of Gleevec side effects. 

Precautions when using Gleevec 

Before using this oral kinase inhibitor, make sure that you have disclosed your full medical history to your physician. This includes any history of heart failure or any heart problems, bleeding problems, kidney disease, liver disease, or thyroid disease. Some diseases or disorders may affect how your body will respond to treatment. In addition, you also have to tell your physician about all the prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and supplements you are taking because they might have drug interactions with imatinib. 

Be watchful for signs of an allergic reaction while on this treatment. Avoid this oral drug if you have a known allergy to imatinib mesylate or any inactive ingredients Gleevec contains. Signs of hypersensitivity are swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, skin rashes, hives, and breathing trouble. In cases like this, discontinue medication and seek emergency help right away. 

Among the side effects of Gleevec are dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision. To avoid triggering or aggravating adverse effects, avoid alcoholic beverages or any similar substances. Also, practice extreme caution when driving, using machinery, or doing activities requiring alertness or clear vision. 

You are more likely to get infections when using Gleevec. Practice good hygiene and avoid contact with people who have an infection. Moreover, avoid immunization or vaccinations, especially those with live vaccines. 

Avoid contact sports or any physical activities that could cause bruising or bleeding. Be careful not to get injured. Practice caution when using sharp objects, such as razors, nail cutters, and knives. 

Be careful when handling Gleevec because it could be absorbed through the skin and lungs. Pregnant women must not touch or inhale the powder from this tablet. This drug could potentially cause danger to unborn babies and breastfed infants. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is this medication an immunosuppressant? 

This medication could cause immunosuppression. 

Is this medication effective for chronic myeloid leukemia? 

CML & Gleevec. This is effective in treating various forms of leukemia. 

Can this medication be prescribed for gastrointestinal stromal tumors? 

Yes, doctors prescribe Gleevec – GIST. 

How should I store this medication? 

Store these tablets in their original container with a label and at room temperature. 

How much does Gleevec cost? 

You can check the price of this medication from this page.