Imatero 100mg Capsule

About

Imatinib is a highly effective targeted therapy classified as a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), primarily used in the treatment of various cancers. Its mechanism of action involves selectively inhibiting the activity of specific enzymes, most notably the BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase, which is a key driver in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). By blocking this abnormal protein, imatinib effectively prevents the uncontrolled proliferation of cancer cells and promotes their programmed cell death (apoptosis), thereby achieving significant disease control. Beyond CML, it also targets other crucial kinases such as KIT and PDGFR, extending its therapeutic utility to conditions like gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) and certain myeloproliferative disorders. This targeted approach often leads to a more favorable side effect profile compared to conventional chemotherapy, though diligent monitoring for potential adverse reactions and treatment efficacy remains crucial throughout the course of therapy.

Uses

• Treatment of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) in various phases.
• Management of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GIST) that are unresectable or metastatic.
• Therapy for Philadelphia chromosome-positive Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (Ph+ ALL).
• Treatment of Myelodysplastic/Myeloproliferative Diseases (MDS/MPD).

Directions For Use

Take this medication orally with a meal and a large glass of water to minimize gastrointestinal irritation. Follow your doctor's prescribed dosage and schedule strictly.

Benefits

• Highly effective in controlling CML progression.
• Improves survival rates in specific cancers.
• Targeted action minimizes damage to healthy cells.
• Available in oral form for convenient administration.
• Can induce durable remissions in responsive patients.
• Reduces tumor burden in GIST and other solid tumors.

Side Effects

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Muscle cramps or pain
• Fluid retention (edema, especially periorbital)
• Skin rash
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Abdominal pain
• Neutropenia (low white blood cell count)
• Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)
• Anemia
• Elevated liver enzymes

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid or limit alcohol consumption as it may increase the risk of liver toxicity, a potential side effect of imatinib.
• Pregnancy - Imatinib is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus. Effective contraception is advised for women of childbearing potential.
• Breastfeeding - Breastfeeding is not recommended during imatinib treatment as the drug may pass into breast milk and harm the infant.
• Liver - Use with caution in patients with pre-existing liver impairment; dose adjustments may be necessary, and liver function should be closely monitored.
• Kidney - Use with caution in patients with severe kidney impairment; dose adjustments may be required, and renal function should be monitored.
• Lung - Rare cases of interstitial lung disease or pulmonary hypertension have been reported; monitor for new or worsening respiratory symptoms.

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