Imatinib Mesylate 100mg

Uses of Imatinib Mesylate 100mg

Imatinib Mesylate 100mg is used to treat:

• Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): Specifically targets Philadelphia chromosome-positive (Ph+) CML in chronic, accelerated, or blast crisis phases.
• Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): Effective for Ph+ ALL in combination with other chemotherapy agents.
• Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs): Treats and manages unresectable or metastatic GISTs caused by mutations in the c-Kit protein.
• Other Conditions: Effective for rare disorders such as systemic mastocytosis, hypereosinophilic syndrome, and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP).

This targeted therapy provides a specialized approach to cancer treatment.

How Does Imatinib Mesylate 100mg Work?

Imatinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that works by:

• Blocking the activity of specific tyrosine kinases, including BCR-ABL, a protein responsible for the abnormal growth of leukemia cells.
• Inhibiting c-Kit and PDGF receptors, which play a role in the growth and spread of GISTs and other tumors.

By targeting these proteins, Imatinib slows or stops the growth of cancer cells and promotes apoptosis (programmed cell death).

How to Use Imatinib Mesylate 100mg

• Dosage: The starting dose varies based on the condition being treated. For CML, the typical dose is 400mg daily; for GISTs, it is 400–600mg daily. Your doctor may adjust the dose as needed.
• Administration: Take Imatinib with a large glass of water and a meal to reduce the risk of stomach upset. Do not crush or chew the tablet.
• Consistency: Take the medication at the same time each day to maintain consistent drug levels in your body.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully for optimal results.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Imatinib Mesylate 100mg include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Muscle cramps or joint pain
• Fatigue
• Skin rash

Serious but less common side effects include:

• Fluid retention or swelling (edema)
• Liver toxicity, with symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Low blood cell counts, leading to increased risk of infection, anemia, or bleeding
• Severe allergic reactions, such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe or unusual side effects.

Drug Interactions

Imatinib Mesylate 100mg may interact with other medications, leading to potential side effects or reduced effectiveness. Common interactions include:

• CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Ritonavir): May increase Imatinib levels in the blood, heightening the risk of side effects.
• CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., Rifampin, Phenytoin): May reduce the effectiveness of Imatinib by decreasing blood levels.
• Acetaminophen: May increase the risk of liver toxicity when used in high doses.
• Warfarin: May increase the risk of bleeding.

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

Food Interactions

Imatinib should be taken with food and a full glass of water to minimize stomach irritation. Avoid:

• Grapefruit Juice: May increase Imatinib levels, leading to side effects.
• Alcohol: Can increase the risk of liver toxicity and exacerbate side effects.

Discuss dietary considerations with your doctor to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Contraindications

Imatinib Mesylate 100mg is contraindicated in the following cases:

• Known hypersensitivity to Imatinib or any of its components.
• Severe liver or kidney impairment.
• Concurrent use with medications that severely interact with Imatinib, as determined by your healthcare provider.

Your doctor will assess your medical history to determine if Imatinib is appropriate for you.

Precautions and Warnings

• Monitoring: Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor liver function, kidney function, and blood cell counts during treatment.
• Fluid Retention: Report symptoms of swelling, weight gain, or shortness of breath to your doctor immediately.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Imatinib may harm an unborn baby or pass into breast milk. Avoid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless specifically recommended by your doctor.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Avoid activities requiring alertness if you experience dizziness or fatigue.
• Infections: Be vigilant for signs of infection, such as fever or sore throat, due to possible low white blood cell counts.

Safety Information

• Emergency Situations: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe allergic reactions, signs of liver failure, or unusual bleeding.
• Overdose: Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain. Contact your doctor immediately if an overdose occurs.
• Regular Follow-Ups: Routine doctor visits are essential to monitor your condition and adjust treatment as needed.
• Storage Precautions: Keep the medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

Storage

• Temperature: Store Imatinib Mesylate 100mg tablets at room temperature, between 20–25°C (68–77°F).
• Moisture and Light: Keep the medication in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and excessive moisture. Avoid storing it in bathrooms.
• Safety: Ensure the bottle is tightly closed after each use to maintain the product’s integrity.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired tablets responsibly, following local waste disposal guidelines.