Gleevec is called Glivec in Europe.
Information about Gleevec (Imatinib)
Gleevec, the brand name for imatinib, is a targeted therapy used primarily in the treatment of certain types of cancer. It is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that works by blocking specific signals within cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing. It was first approved by the FDA in 2001 and has become a cornerstone in the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs).
Product Highlights
- Gleevec (Imatinib) is primarily used in the treatment of several specific types of cancers and conditions, including:
- Particularly in the chronic phase.
- For tumors expressing the c-KIT gene.
- Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) that features the BCR-ABL fusion.
- Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) expressing PDGFB.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Specifically targets cancer cells with BCR-ABL fusion protein.
- Significantly increases progression-free survival in patients with CML and GISTs.
- Oral dosing allows for easier patient compliance compared to intravenous therapies.
Direction of Use
- Typically, the starting dose for CML is 400 mg daily, while for GISTs, it can be 400-800 mg daily, depending on individual circumstances.
- Administered once daily with a meal to enhance absorption.
Safety Concerns
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, edema, rash, and fatigue.
- Potential for liver dysfunction, heart failure, severe bleeding, and low blood cell counts (thrombocytopenia, neutropenia).
- Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor liver function and blood cell counts.
Avoid Gleevec (Imatinib) If
- If you have a known allergy to imatinib or any of its components.
- Patients with significant liver issues may require an alternative therapy.
- Use in these populations should be discussed with a healthcare provider due to potential risks.
