Imatinib

• For the treatment of
• Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (Ph+ CML)
• Philadelphia chromosome positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL)
• Myelodysplastic/ myeloproliferative diseases (MDS/ MPD)
• Hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES)
• Chronic eosinophilic leukemia (CEL)
• Aggressive systemic mastocytosis (ASM)
• Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP)
• Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST)

When should one not use Imatinib

• If you are allergic to Imatinib or any of the ingredients of the medicine.

Common side effects of this drug are:

• Fluid retention & oedema
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Cough
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhoea
• Weight gain
• Insomnia
• Taste disturbance

Other General Warnings

• You have or have had heart, liver or kidney problems. Imatinib can affect the heart, liver and kidney function, so your doctor may need to monitor you more closely.
• You experience unexpected or rapid weight gain or swelling, as this may be a sign of fluid retention.
• You are taking levothyroxine, particularly if you have had your thyroid gland removed. Imatinib may cause or worsen an underactive thyroid in these patients, and your doctor may monitor your thyroid function.
• You develop unusual bruising or bleeding, persistent fever, severe tiredness, or other unusual symptoms. These may need prompt medical assessment.
• You notice yellowing of the skin or eyes, loss of appetite, unusual bleeding or bruising, as these may be signs of liver problems.
• You have a condition that increases your risk of heart problems. Imatinib has been associated with heart failure and reduced heart function in some patients.
• You develop symptoms of kidney problems or have existing kidney disease, as kidney function may decline during treatment.
• You are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Imatinib can cause harm to an unborn baby.

How Does It Work?

Interactions with other medicines

• Tell your doctor about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, supplements and herbal products you take or plan to take while using imatinib.
• Medicines that affect CYP3A4: Some medicines can increase or decrease the amount of imatinib in your body. Strong CYP3A4 inducers, such as phenytoin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital, rifampicin, rifabutin and St John's wort, may reduce the effect of imatinib and should be avoided unless specifically advised by your doctor.
• Medicines affected by imatinib: Imatinib can affect the levels of some other medicines in your body. Tell your doctor about all medicines you take so that potential interactions can be assessed.
• Blood thinners: If you need treatment to prevent blood clots, tell your doctor. The prescribing information recommends using low-molecular-weight or standard heparin rather than warfarin in patients requiring anticoagulation.
• Do not start, stop or change any medicine, including herbal products, without discussing it with your doctor

Interactions with food items

Overdose

Missed a Dose