Brand Name | Glivec 100mg |
Packaging Type | Strip |
Molecule | Imatinib |
Generic Name | Imatinib 100mg |
Manufactured By | Novartis India |
Form | Tablet |
Country of Origin | Switzerland |
Categories | Oncology |
Introduction to Glivec Imatinib 100mg
Imatinib mechanism of action
Uses of Glivec
- Glivec effectively treats this type of white blood cell cancer by targeting proteins causing the disease. It slows progression and induces remission by controlling the overproduction of immature white cells.
- For cases with Philadelphia chromosome-positive (Ph+ ALL), Glivec inhibits the spread and growth of cancer cells, improving treatment success.
- Glivec is highly valued for treating GIST, a cancer of the stomach muscles. It helps shrink tumors, reduces recurrence, and controls mass growth.
- Glivec addresses various blood cancers by targeting and reducing excessive cell division in affected areas.
- This rare immune disorder causes an overproduction of mast cells. Glivec regulates mast cell activity, alleviating symptoms and slowing disease progression.
- High eosinophil levels in the blood can damage organs. Glivec lowers eosinophil counts and prevents further harm.
- For this rare skin cancer, Glivec is effective in inhibiting tumor growth and preventing cancer spread, ensuring better patient outcomes.
Dosage and Administration of Glivec Imatinib 100mg
- Swallow whole or dissolve: Do not crush the tablets. If swallowing is difficult, dissolve them in water or apple juice (the amount depends on your dose). Stir well and drink immediately.
- Dosage: Your dose depends on your condition, response to treatment, and any other medications you are taking. For children, the dose is based on body size. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.
- Stick to prescribed doses: Do not take more of the medication or use it longer than directed. It won’t make you better faster and can increase side effects.
Side Effects of Glivec
Common Side Effect
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Upset stomach
- Skin rash
- Itchy or dry skin
- Redness or peeling skin
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Muscle or joint pain
- Weight changes
Serious Side effect
- Loss of appetite
- Chest pain
- Irregular heartbeats
- Fever
- Swelling or pain in the throat or mucous membranes
- Severe headaches
- Difficulty speaking or signs of brain swelling
Precautions for Using Glivec
Existing Medical Conditions
- Liver or kidney diseases.
- Have or had any issues with the heart or had a thyroidectomy?
- Hepatitis B since it can become active again during the treatment.
Medicine Interactions
- St John's wort or paracetamol.
- Antibiotics such as rifampicin or erythromycin.
- Oral antivirals against HIV AIDS or medications for lowering cholesterol.
- Medication for depression, epilepsy, and thrombosis.
Glivec 100mg Tablets are used in the treatment of blood cancer. It works by decreasing the number of red blood cells, which is produced by the body. Thereby prevents the cancer cells from growing and multiplying. Glivec 100mg Tablets interfere with the growth of cancer cells and can reduce immune system activity.
When taking a Glivec 100mg Tablets, avoid grapefruit and Seville oranges because they can interfere with how the medication works. Limit high-fiber foods, like raw meats, eggs, and seafood, to reduce digestive risks and infections, which can be more challenging with Glivec 100mg Tablets. Use alcohol sparingly or avoid it completely to prevent interactions that might affect treatment.
After taking Glivec 100mg Tablets generally, some patients may begin to see initial effects within a few weeks of starting treatment, such as a reduction in symptoms or stabilization of blood counts. It can take between 6 - 12 weeks before you start to feel the benefits of your treatment. However, to fully assess its effectiveness in controlling cancer growth and achieving remission, it typically requires several months of continuous treatment. 6-MP Mercaptopurine does not work immediately.
Nausea and vomiting
Loss of appetite
Diarrhea
Mouth sores
Fatigue
Always talk to your doctor before taking Imatinib 100mg with other medications. This is important because Imatinib 100mg can interact with other drugs, which might change how it works or increase the risk of side effects. Your doctor can help you safely manage all your medications together.
No, Imatinib is a targeted therapy, not traditional chemotherapy. It works by blocking specific proteins, like BCR-ABL, to stop cancer cell growth with fewer effects on healthy cells.