Gleevec (Imatinib)

Description

Indications

Imatinib is a medication that is utilized for treating particular forms of leukemia, a type of cancer that initiates in white blood cells, as well as other blood cell disorders and cancers. It is also used for treating certain gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), which are tumors that grow in the digestive passages’ walls and can potentially spread to other parts of the body.

Imatinib is further used for treating dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, a tumor that develops underneath the skin’s surface, when surgical removal of the tumor is not feasible, or the tumor has metastasized, or has reoccurred after surgical intervention. This medication belongs to a group of drugs known as kinase inhibitors, which function by inhibiting the action of an abnormal protein that stimulates cancer cells to proliferate.

Uses and Dosage

Imatinib is administered orally in tablet form, usually along with a meal and a full glass of water once or twice per day. Take the medication at approximately the same time(s) every day, and to follow the instructions on the prescription label carefully.

Take imatinib precisely as prescribed and not to take more or less than the prescribed amount or to take it more frequently than directed by the doctor.

The tablets must be swallowed whole and should not be chewed or crushed. If a crushed tablet comes into contact with the skin, the affected area should be washed thoroughly.

In cases where swallowing the tablets is not possible, the necessary quantity of tablets for a single dose can be dissolved in a glass of water or apple juice. For each 100-mg tablet, 50 milliliters of liquid should be used, and for each 400-mg tablet, 200 milliliters of liquid should be used. Stir the mixture with a spoon until the tablets crumble entirely, and then drink the solution right away.

If the doctor has prescribed an 800-mg dose of imatinib, take two 400-mg tablets, rather than eight 100-mg tablets. The tablet coating contains iron, and excessive iron can be consumed by taking eight 100-mg tablets.

During the course of treatment, the doctor may adjust the imatinib dosage depending on its effectiveness and the side effects experienced. Patients should communicate their progress and any adverse effects to their doctor. Continue taking imatinib, even if one feels well, and do not discontinue its use without consulting a physician.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• diarrhea
• nausea
• vomiting
• change in the way things taste
• mouth sores or swelling inside the mouth
• loss of appetite
• weight loss
• heartburn or indigestion
• dry mouth
• headache
• joint swelling or pain
• bone pain
• muscle cramps, spasms, or pain
• tingling, burning. or prickling feeling on the skin
• difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
• sweating
• teary eyes
• pink eye
• flushing
• dry skin
• rash
• itching
• nail changes
• hair loss

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• swelling around the eyes
• swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• sudden weight gain
• shortness of breath
• fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat
• coughing up pink or bloody mucus
• increased urination, especially at night
• chest pain
• peeling, blistering, or shedding skin
• yellowing of the skin or eyes
• blood in the stool
• unusual bruising or bleeding
• flu-like symptoms, sore throat, fever, chills, and other signs of infection
• excessive tiredness or weakness
• abdominal pain or bloating

Caution

Before using imatinib, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients that could cause allergic reactions or other problems.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, especially if you have bleeding problems, heart problems, kidney disease, liver disease, or have had your thyroid gland removed.

Imatinib may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. The use of alcohol or marijuana may increase these effects. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness or clear vision until you can do so safely.

Imatinib may increase your risk of developing infections or exacerbate existing infections. Avoid contact with people who have contagious illnesses, such as chickenpox, measles, or the flu. Consult your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or for further information.

Inform your healthcare professional that you are taking imatinib before receiving any immunizations or vaccinations. Avoid contact with individuals who have recently received live vaccines, such as the flu vaccine inhaled through the nose.

This medication may slow down the growth of children, and its effects on final adult height are not yet known. Have your child’s height and weight monitored regularly by a doctor.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, particularly edema or swelling.

Since this medication can be absorbed through the skin and lungs and may harm an unborn baby, pregnant women or those planning to become pregnant should not handle this medication or inhale the dust from the tablets. Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

You should not become pregnant while taking imatinib, as it may harm the unborn baby. Discuss the use of reliable forms of birth control while taking this medication and for 2 weeks after stopping treatment. If you become pregnant while taking imatinib, contact your doctor immediately to discuss the risks and benefits of this medication.

This medication can pass into breast milk, potentially harming the infant. Therefore, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for 1 month after the final dose.

Form and Strength

Gleevec is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Gleevec tablet:
  • 100mg
  • 400mg
• imatinib tablet:
  • 100mg
  • 400mg

FAQ

Is Gleevec considered chemotherapy?

Gleevec is a targeted treatment and is not chemotherapy. It may also be called a cancer growth inhibitor.

How long can you stay on Gleevec?

Gleevec is generally given for at least 3 years if the patient is tolerating it well.

Resources

1. https://www.drugs.com/tips/gleevec-patient-tips#:~:text=Gleevec%20is%20a%20targeted%20treatment,making%20abnormal%20white%20blood%20cells
2. https://liferaftgroup.org/stopping-gleevec/#:~:text=Imatinib%20is%20generally%20given%20for,if%20longer%20durations%20are%20beneficial
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/imatinib-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20068331
4. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a606018.html
5. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-20980/gleevec-oral/details
6. https://www.drugs.com/gleevec.html