What Cancer is Imatinib Used For?

Imatinib 400mg is prescribed for the treatment of cancer such as chronic myeloid leukemia, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, myelodysplastic syndrome, gastrointestinal stromal tumors, and systemic mastocytosis. The medicine is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat these cancers. Imatinib comes in the group of medications called kinase inhibitors. It prevents the growth of cancer cells and hence stops cancer from spreading.

Usage and dosage

Take the medicine by mouth with a meal or glass of water at the same time every day. The dosage may vary with the condition of an individual. As per recommendation, swallow the medicine directly, one should not crush or chew the medicine while taking medication. Also, you should not increase or decrease the amount of dosage by itself without a doctor’s advice.

Complications

The common side effects associated with the medicine include nausea, blurred vision, diarrhea, muscle pain, drowsiness, and headache. There are some serious side effects as well such as sudden weight gain, swelling around eyes, dark urine, abdominal pain, and fast heartbeat. Consult a doctor immediately if you see any of these serious side effects. Also, if any of the common side effects stay for long then visit the doctor as soon as possible. This medicine reduces the capacity to fight against infection as well so you should be conscious while taking medication.

Talk to a healthcare professional immediately if you see any of the infection signs such as fever, chills, and sore throat.

Precaution

It is important for a person to take precautions before going for medication. One should always ask a doctor about the dos and don’t of the medicine. 

As ignorance of certain points may cause harmful effects on health. Like, you should talk to a doctor if you are allergic to Imatinib 400mg Tablet or have any underlying allergies. Also, in case of an underlying disease don’t forget to mention it to the healthcare provider. 

Pregnant women should avoid taking this medication as it may harm the unborn baby. And, the proper use of contraceptives is a must during treatment. Including, medicine may also pass through breast milk. So, one should avoid breastfeeding as well while taking medication.

Do not take alcohol and marijuana during treatment as it may increase the symptom of dizziness.

If you are taking certain medication then share it with a doctor to avoid interaction with medicine.

Price

Imatinib Price may depend upon the brand as well as composition. The medicine is affordable to buy but one may get even at a lower price on discounts or by applying health insurance.