Description

Product Details:
Manufacturer Natco
Prescription/Non prescription Prescription
Packaging Size 3 x 10 Tablet
Dose/Strength (ex. 1 mg or 1 ml) 400 mg
Form Tablet

What is Imatinib used for?

Imatinib injection is used in the treatment of following conditions:

  • Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL)
  • Chronic lymphoblastic leukaemia (CLL)
  • Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML)
  • Intestinal cancer
  • Skin cancer
  • Stomach cancer
  • Bone marrow disorder

Imatinib may also be prescribed for other conditions as determined by the doctor.

How does Imatinib work?

Imatinib belongs to the class of drugs called anti-cancer drugs. This drug acts by producing a cytotoxic effect on the cancerous cells, which helps in preventing the growth and spread of cancer cells.

How to administer Imatinib?

The dosage and the drug form depend on the age, weight and medical condition of an individual.

Imatinib injection should be administered only under the medical supervision.

If you miss a dose of Imatinib, please consult your doctor immediately.

What are the drugs that interact with Imatinib?

Drugs that interact with Imatinib include the following:

  • Adalimumab
  • Aspirin
  • Chlorpheniramine
  • Clozapine
  • Colchicine
  • Diphenhydramine
  • Guaifenesin
  • Ivabradine

This is not a comprehensive list of drug interactions. Consult your doctor to know more about other possible drug interactions.

What are the side effects of Imatinib?

The following are the most common side effects of Imatinib:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Body pains
  • Hair loss
  • Muscle cramps
  • Nausea
  • Pale skin
  • Pedal oedema
  • Vomiting
  • Weight loss

The following are the severe side effects and you may require immediate medical attention:

  • Redness at the injection site
  • Bleeding and bruising of the skin
  • Blood in the urine
  • Blurry vision
  • Chest discomfort
  • Seizures

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Please consult your doctor to know more about other possible side effects.

What special precautions should be followed while receiving Imatinib?

  • Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if Imatinib causes dizziness or blurred vision.
  • Do not stop using the medication abruptly unless instructed by the doctor.
  • Do not exceed the dose more than what is prescribed.
  • Avoid Imatinib during pregnancy or breastfeeding because the safe use of the drug is not yet established.

What should you tell your doctor before receiving Imatinib?

  • Inform the doctor if you have undergone surgery before using Imatinib medicine.
  • Inform the doctor if you are taking any other drugs, OTC medications, herbal products or nutritional supplements.
  • Tell your doctor if you have any history of diabetes, hypertension or other chronic diseases.
  • Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding while using Imatinib medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions about Imatinib

    1. How long can I use Imatinib medicine?

You should use Imatinib medicine for a prescribed duration. Do not discontinue the drug unless recommended by the doctor.

    1. Is it safe to alter the dose of Imatinib medicine?

Do not alter the dose of Imatinib medicine without consulting the doctor. A change in the medicine dose may fail to produce drug action.

    1. What are the other formulations of Imatinib medicine available?

Imatinib medicine is also available in capsule form.