Gleevec
Gleevec Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Gleevec is a brand name. Its generic name is Imatinib.
Introduction
Gleevec, brand name Gleevec, is a type of targeted therapy drug used for the treatment of certain types of cancer, including leukaemia and certain forms of lymphoma and certain cancers of the stomach or digestive system. It is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, which works by inhibiting the activity of certain proteins in cancer cells called tyrosine kinases. This prevents cancer cells from multiplying and helps to reduce the size of cancerous tumours.Uses
Gleevec is used to treat certain types of leukaemia, including chronic myelogenous leukaemia and acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. It is also used to treat Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myelogenous leukaemia and to prevent the recurrence of certain types of gastrointestinal stromal tumours.Mechanism Of Action
Gleevec works by inhibiting the activity of certain proteins in cancer cells called tyrosine kinases. Tyrosine kinases are enzymes that are involved in sending signals within cells that control their development and growth. By blocking the activity of these enzymes, imatinib disrupts the signal pathways that promote tumour growth.How Long Does It Take To Work?
The effects of imatinib can take 2 to 4 months to be seen. It may take longer in some patients. In order for the drug to be fully effective, it is important to keep taking it as prescribed by your doctor.Absorption
Gleevec is rapidly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract with peak concentrations of the drug being reached in 1 to 2 hours. The absorption of the drug is increased when taken with food.Route of Elimination
Gleevec is mainly eliminated through the urine, with around 75% of the drug being excreted this way. The rest of the drug is excreted in the faeces.Dosage
The recommended dose of Gleevec is 400mg once daily, to be taken orally.Administration
Gleevec tablets are usually taken orally, with or without food. Tablets should be swallowed with a glass of water.Side Effects
Common side effects of Gleevec include: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, weight loss, rash, headache, joint pain, and fatigue. More serious side effects include liver damage, decreased blood cell counts, heart problems, bone marrow suppression, and allergic reactions.Toxicity
Toxic levels of Gleevec can occur if high doses are taken for extended periods of time, or if the drug is taken in combination with other drugs that interact with it. Signs of toxicity include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, weight loss, rash, headache, joint pain, fatigue, bleeding, and low blood cell counts.Precautions
Gleevec should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing liver or kidney damage, and those with heart conditions. It should also be used with caution in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as it may cause harm to a developing baby.Interactions
Gleevec may interact with other drugs, particularly those that are metabolised by the same enzyme. This includes drugs like Metformin, Warfarin, and Phenytoin. It may also interact with St John's Wort and certain supplements. It is important to tell your doctor about all medicines and supplements you are taking.Disease Interactions
Gleevec may interact with certain diseases, such as urinary tract infections, liver disease, or lung disease. If you have any of these conditions, or any other medical conditions, it is important to tell your doctor before taking Gleevec.Drug Interactions
Gleevec may interact with other drugs, particularly those metabolised by the same enzyme. These include Metformin, Warfarin, and Phenytoin. It is important to tell your doctor about all medicines and supplements you are taking, as certain combinations may result in decreased effectiveness of Gleevec or increased side effects.Food Interactions
Gleevec should be taken with food for increased absorption. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice should be avoided, as they may increase the concentration of Gleevec in the bloodstream.Pregnancy Use
Gleevec is classified as a Pregnancy Category D drug, meaning it is not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Gleevec may cause harm to a developing baby and should not be used unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks.Lactation Use
Gleevec is classified as a Lactation Category C drug, meaning it is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women. Gleevec may be present in breast milk and cause harm to a nursing baby.Acute Overdose
Symptoms of an acute overdose may include dizziness, headache, nausea, or vomiting. Treatment involves managing symptoms, and gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be used to remove any residual Gleevec from the stomach.Contraindication
Gleevec is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components. It is also contraindicated in pregnant or breastfeeding women.Use Direction
Gleevec should be taken as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. It should be taken once daily with or without food. Do not stop taking Gleevec unless your doctor tells you to.Storage Condition
Gleevec should be stored in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Do not store in the bathroom, kitchen, or any other moist area. Keep the tablets in their original container with the lid tightly closed.Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of Gleevec is 11.2 L/kg.Half Life
The half life of Gleevec is 18 hours.Clearance
The clearance of Gleevec is 5.41 L/h/kg.Here you find in details version of Gleevec
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Gleevec
What is Gleevec?
Gleevec is an oral medication that is used to treat certain types of cancer, including chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and certain types of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). It is sometimes referred to as a “targeted therapy” because it targets specific proteins, proteins found in certain cancer cells, to stop the growth of those cells.
How does Gleevec work?
Gleevec works by blocking certain proteins that are involved in the growth of cancer cells. This stops the cancer cells from growing, and eventually leads to their death.
What are the side effects of Gleevec?
The most common side effects of Gleevec are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, muscle cramps, rash, and fatigue. Less common side effects include low blood counts, fluid retention, joint pain, and abdominal pain.
How often should I take Gleevec?
Your doctor will tell you how often you should take Gleevec. Generally, it should be taken once daily, with or without food.
Can I take Gleevec with other medications?
You should always check with your doctor before taking any other medications while taking Gleevec. Certain medications may interact with Gleevec and should not be taken together.
How long does it take for Gleevec to start working?
It may take a few weeks for Gleevec to start working. Some people may start to see results after a few weeks, while others may take longer. Your doctor will be able to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment if needed.
What if I miss a dose of Gleevec?
If you miss a dose, you should take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, you should skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.
Can I take Gleevec while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Gleevec is not recommended for use in pregnant women. If you are breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking Gleevec.
What should I do if I experience any serious side effects while taking Gleevec?
You should contact your doctor right away if you experience any serious side effects while taking Gleevec. Serious side effects may include symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, severe dizziness, or sudden changes in vision.
What tests do I need to have done before starting Gleevec?
Your doctor will order certain tests before starting Gleevec. These tests may include blood tests, chest x-rays, and other imaging tests to evaluate your condition. Your doctor may also order tests to monitor your response to Gleevec and adjust your treatment plan if needed.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Gleevec?
It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Gleevec. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects with this medication.
Can Gleevec be used to treat other types of cancer?
Gleevec is only approved to treat certain types of cancer, including chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and certain types of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). It is not approved for the treatment of any other type of cancer.
What other medications should I avoid while taking Gleevec?
You should always check with your doctor before taking any other medications while taking Gleevec. Certain medications may interact with Gleevec, including antifungals, antibiotics, blood thinners, and heart medications.
Can I still exercise while taking Gleevec?
You should talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise program while taking Gleevec, as it may affect your blood counts. If your doctor approves, it is usually safe to continue with the same level of regular physical activity while taking Gleevec.
What is the most common Gleevec dosage?
The most commonly prescribed dosage of Gleevec is 400 mg taken once daily. Your doctor may prescribe a different dosage if needed, depending on the type of cancer and your individual response to Gleevec.
Should I avoid certain foods while taking Gleevec?
There are no foods that you need to avoid while taking Gleevec. However, it is best to eat a healthy diet while taking any medication, as it can help to optimize your treatment results.
What if I am unable to swallow the Gleevec tablets?
You should contact your doctor if you are having difficulty swallowing the Gleevec tablets. Your doctor may be able to provide alternative forms of the medication that are easier to swallow.
Should I take Gleevec with food or without food?
You can take Gleevec with or without food. However, do not take it with anything dairy, grapefruit, or high-fat foods.
Is Gleevec a chemotherapy drug?
No, Gleevec is not a chemotherapy drug. It is an oral targeted therapy, meaning that it specifically targets certain proteins found in certain cancer cells in order to stop their growth and lead to their death.
What are the possible long-term side effects of Gleevec?
Potential long-term side effects of Gleevec may include heart problems, liver problems, vision problems, a reduction in white blood cells, and an increase in cholesterol levels. However, these side effects are rare and will be monitored by your doctor during your treatment.
Is Gleevec suitable for everyone?
No, Gleevec is not suitable for everyone. You should always talk to your doctor before starting any new medication. Gleevec should not be taken by people with certain medical conditions or anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding.
Is it possible to become resistant to Gleevec?
Yes, it is possible to become resistant to Gleevec over time. If this happens, your doctor may need to adjust your treatment plan or switch to a different type of medication.
Should I be tested for other diseases or conditions before taking Gleevec?
You should always talk to your doctor before starting any new medication. Your doctor may recommend certain tests to evaluate your condition and check for any underlying or pre-existing conditions.
Can Gleevec be used to treat other forms of cancer besides CML and GIST?
No, Gleevec is only approved to treat chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and certain types of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). It is not approved for the treatment of any other type of cancer.
What is the cost of Gleevec?
The cost of Gleevec will vary depending on the pharmacy or manufacturer you buy it from. Your insurance provider may also cover the cost of the medication. You should check with your provider and pharmacist for more information.
Should I take Gleevec with other medications?
You should always consult with your doctor before taking any other medications while taking Gleevec. Certain medications may interact with Gleevec and should not be taken together.
Can Gleevec cure cancer?
Gleevec is an effective treatment for certain types of cancer, including chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and certain types of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). However, it is not a cure-all. Other treatments may be needed to help manage symptoms or prevent the cancer from returning.
Can I donate blood while taking Gleevec?
No, you should not donate blood while taking Gleevec. You can donate blood once you have completed your treatment and your doctor has determined that it is safe for you to do so.
What if I forget to take my dose of Gleevec?
If you forget to take a dose of Gleevec, you should take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, you should skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.
Is Gleevec safe for children?
Gleevec is not recommended for use in children. It has only been studied in adults and there is no reliable data to suggest it is safe or effective for use in children.
Are there any known drug interactions with Gleevec?
Yes, certain medications may interact with Gleevec, including antifungals, antibiotics, blood thinners, and heart medications. You should always check with your doctor before taking any other medications while taking Gleevec.
What should I do if I experience any serious side effects while taking Gleevec?
You should contact your doctor right away if you experience any serious side effects while taking Gleevec. Serious side effects may include symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, severe dizziness, or sudden changes in vision.
How long should I take Gleevec for?
How long you take Gleevec for will depend on your individual response to the medication. Your doctor will be able to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment if needed.
What happens if I stop taking Gleevec?
If you stop taking Gleevec, your cancer may come back or become more difficult to treat. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions for taking your medication and not to stop taking it without consulting your doctor first.
Should I talk to my doctor before starting Gleevec?
Yes, it is important to talk to your doctor before starting Gleevec. Your doctor will evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment for your specific needs.
How long does it take for Gleevec to start working?
It may take a few weeks for Gleevec to start working. Some people may start to see results after a few weeks, while others may take longer. Your doctor will be able to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment if needed.
What if I am having difficulty swallowing the Gleevec tablets?
You should contact your doctor if you are having difficulty swallowing the Gleevec tablets. Your doctor may be able to provide alternative forms of the medication that are easier to swallow.
Are there any dietary or lifestyle changes I should make while taking Gleevec?
It is important to eat a healthy diet, get regular exercise, and get plenty of rest while taking Gleevec. Your doctor may also recommend avoiding foods or beverages that contain grapefruit juice.
Should I be following up with my doctor regularly while taking Gleevec?
Yes, it is important to attend follow-up appointments with your doctor while taking Gleevec. Your doctor will be able to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment if needed.
What are the benefits of taking Gleevec?
The primary benefit of taking Gleevec is that it is an effective treatment for certain types of cancer, including chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and certain types of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). It is generally well tolerated and can lead to improved quality of life for those who take it.