Imatinib is achemotherapy medication that is useful for the treatment of leukemia and myelodysplastic cancer. It also treats gastrointestinal stromal tumors. Imatinib is also known as Imarech and it is manufactured by Arechar Healthcare. It is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that functions by blocking the activity of BCR–ABL tyrosine kinase. It also blocks the actions of several growth factors which are needed by the tumors. Therefore, it induces cell death in the cancerous cells and thereby prevents the growth and spreading of tumors. Imatinib 400mg is taken orally every day with a meal. However, avoid grapefruit or its juice while consuming this tablet.
Side effects of Imatinib are such as –
- Diarrhea, vomiting, nausea
- Sudden weight loss or weight gain
- Loss of appetite
- Dizziness and extreme fatigue
- Blurred vision and pink eye
- Redness, rashes of skin
- Swelling of joints
- Trouble in sleeping
- Hair loss
- Shortness of breath
- Yellowing of eye and skin
- Pink mucous in the cough
- Irregular heart rate
- Chest pain
- Muscle cramps
To reduce the above side effects, it is advisable to increase the fluid diet. Also, incorporate a healthy nutritious diet plan. If the side effects still prevail then it is advisable to consult the doctor who will prescribe an alternative medication.
Precautions to remember when taking Imatinib are such as –
- Imatinib can cause an allergic reaction in some patients.
- Avoiding pregnancy during and till fourteen days after the last dose is advisable as Imatinib can harm the fetus. Also, avoid breastfeeding till one month after the last dose of Imatinib.
- Regular use of this medication can cause dizziness and blurred eyesight. Hence driving and operating on heavy machinery is not advisable.
- Inform the doctor about past ailments especially if suffered from heart, lung, kidney, and liver disorders.
- Imatinib can interact with other medications like acetaminophen, alprazolam, indinavir, and carbamazepine, and also avoid iron supplements. These other medications might interact with the drug and interfere with its mechanism.
Conclusion
Imatinib is an effective medication for the treatment of leukemia. It starts showing positive results immediately after use and it also increases the survival rate among patients. The Imatinib 400 Mg Price is high however you can purchase from Magicine Pharma at an affordable rate.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1 – Where to store Imatinib?
Ans – It is advisable to store the Imatinibat a place below 30°C.
Q2 – Can I drink alcohol with Imatinib?
Ans – Avoid drinking alcohol during the treatment with Imatinib even though no interactions of both are known.
Q3 – How long is the treatment with Imatinib?
Ans – The doctor decides for how long the Imatinib treatment will continue depending on the condition, stage, and health of the patient.