AVAILABLE MEDICINE FOR Imatinib

Name	Price	Action
Glivec Imatinib 100mg Tablets $100.00 - $180.00	$100.00 - $180.00
Glivec Imatinib 400mg Tablets $71.00 $79.00	$71.00 $79.00
Imat Imatinib 400mg Tablets $27.00 $30.00	$27.00 $30.00
Imatib Imatinib 400mg Tablets $15.00 $20.00	$15.00 $20.00
Imatiwin Imatinib 400mg Tablets		Ask for Price
Imaxen Imatinib 400mg Tablets		Ask for Price

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Introduction to Imatinib

Imatinib is a medicine that helps treat certain types of cancer. It was approved by the FDA in 2001. Since then, it has become an important part of cancer treatment. Imatinib works by targeting specific proteins that cause cells to grow abnormally. This makes it more precise than regular chemotherapy. It is especially useful for treating chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). Both conditions involve problems with how cells grow and communicate. Imatinib blocks these signals, which helps stop cancer from spreading.

Imatinib is also used for other conditions, like hypereosinophilic syndrome and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans.

It is sold under the brand name Gleevec by Novartis. Its generic version is more affordable, making it accessible to more people. This has made Imatinib a key treatment for cancer and blood disorders.

Mechanism of action

Imatinib targets specific proteins that cause abnormal cell growth in certain cancers. One of the main proteins it blocks is BCR-ABL. This protein forms when two genes break and join together. BCR-ABL is found in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). It causes cancer cells to grow uncontrollably. Imatinib binds to BCR-ABL. This stops it from working and halts signals that make cancer cells multiply.

Imatinib also targets KIT, another protein. KIT is found in gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). In GIST, KIT is mutated and causes abnormal cell growth. Imatinib blocks KIT’s activity. This prevents tumor growth and stops its progression.

This targeted action is important because it focuses only on cancer cells. It leaves normal, healthy cells unharmed. By reducing damage to healthy tissues, Imatinib causes fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy. It addresses the root cause of cancers, improving survival rates and quality of life for patients.

FDA and EMA Approval

Imatinib was first approved by the FDA on May 10, 2001, marking a significant breakthrough in cancer treatment and the start of targeted therapies. It was initially authorized for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), a blood cancer caused by the abnormal protein BCR-ABL, and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), rare cancers of the digestive system.

The European Medicines Agency approved Imatinib on November 7, 2001, further solidifying its global importance. The drug has transformed cancer care by effectively stopping cancer cell growth while causing fewer side effects than traditional treatments. This has brought new hope to patients worldwide.

Imatinib Uses

Imatinib is prescribed to treat several types of cancer and other conditions. Its main uses are:-

Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: A blood cancer caused by an abnormal protein called BCR-ABL.
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors: Rare tumors in the digestive system, often linked to a mutation in a protein called KIT.
Other Conditions: Imatinib is also used to treat diseases like hypereosinophilic syndrome and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, which cause abnormal cell growth.
Imatinib is mainly prescribed for adults, but it can also be used for children in certain cases, particularly for CML and GIST.

In some cases, doctors may prescribe Imatinib for conditions not officially approved by health authorities. This is called off-label use, and it can include other types of cancers or blood disorders.

Dosage and Administration

Imatinib is available in tablet and oral solution forms. Common tablet strengths include 100 mg and 400 mg.

For Chronic Myeloid Leukemia and Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors, the starting dose for adults is typically 400 mg once daily.

Administration Guidelines

Imatinib is usually taken once daily, but the dose may be divided into two smaller doses in some cases.
It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with a meal is recommended to reduce stomach upset.
To maintain consistent levels in the body, take Imatinib at the same time each day.

Side Effects

Imatinib can cause both common and severe side effects, which vary from patient to patient.

Common Side Effects:

Nausea and vomiting
Fatigue
Headache
Edema (swelling)
Rash
Muscle cramps
Severe Side Effects:
Heart problems
Liver issues
Severe skin reactions
Bone marrow suppression

Drug Interactions and Lifestyle Factors

Imatinib can interact with several medications, potentially affecting its efficacy or safety. Some key interactions include:

CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Medications like ketoconazole, itraconazole, or ritonavir may increase Imatinib levels, raising the risk of side effects.
CYP3A4 Inducers: Drugs such as rifampin, carbamazepine, or phenytoin can decrease Imatinib levels, reducing its effectiveness.
Anticoagulants: Imatinib may interact with warfarin, affecting blood clotting and increasing the risk of bleeding
Alcohol: Excessive alcohol use can worsen liver toxicity, which is a concern with Imatinib treatment.