Imatikast 400mg Tablet

About

Imatinib, marketed under various brand names such as Imatinate, Imatikast, and Imatero, is a groundbreaking oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Its primary therapeutic action involves selectively targeting the Bcr-Abl fusion protein, a molecular hallmark of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML), and other crucial tyrosine kinases including KIT and PDGF-R. By precisely blocking these aberrant signaling pathways, Imatinib effectively inhibits the uncontrolled proliferation and induces programmed cell death (apoptosis) in cancer cells that rely on these proteins for their growth and survival. This targeted molecular approach has revolutionized the treatment landscape for CML, transforming a previously fatal disease into a manageable chronic condition for many patients. Furthermore, its efficacy extends to other specific malignancies like Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GIST). Imatinib stands as a cornerstone in modern targeted cancer therapy, offering a highly specific and often less toxic alternative to traditional chemotherapy, leading to significantly improved patient outcomes and long-term disease control.

Uses

• Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML)
• Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GIST)
• Myelodysplastic/Myeloproliferative Diseases (MDS/MPD)
• Hypereosinophilic Syndrome (HES)/Chronic Eosinophilic Leukemia (CEL)

Directions For Use

Take orally with a meal and a large glass of water to minimize gastrointestinal irritation. Swallow the tablet whole.

Benefits

• Highly effective in CML and GIST
• Targeted cancer therapy
• Oral administration convenience
• Improved survival rates
• Reduced disease progression
• Generally well-tolerated compared to chemotherapy

Side Effects

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Muscle cramps
• Fluid retention (edema)
• Fatigue
• Rash
• Headache
• Abdominal pain
• Neutropenia
• Thrombocytopenia
• Elevated liver enzymes

Safety Measures

• Alcohol - Avoid or limit alcohol consumption due to potential for increased liver toxicity and gastrointestinal irritation.
• Pregnancy - Contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential for fetal harm. Use effective contraception during treatment.
• Breastfeeding - Contraindicated during breastfeeding as Imatinib is excreted in human milk and can cause serious adverse reactions in infants.
• Liver - Use with caution and dose adjustment in patients with hepatic impairment. Monitor liver function closely.
• Kidney - Use with caution in patients with renal impairment; dose adjustment may be necessary based on kidney function.
• Lung - Monitor for new or worsening pulmonary symptoms; interstitial lung disease and pulmonary hypertension have been reported.

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