About imatinib mesylate
Tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Used for
- Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML)
- Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (Ph+ ALL)
- Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST)
- Other specific cancers, including dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans
Usual adult dose
Usually 400 mg daily for CML or GIST; 600 mg daily for Ph+ ALL. Specialist-directed dosing varies.
Usual dose in children
For paediatric CML or Ph+ ALL, typically 340 mg/m² once daily, up to 600 mg daily.
Common side effects
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or abdominal discomfort
- Fluid retention, including swelling around the eyes or ankles
- Muscle cramps, joint pain, or muscle pain
- Low blood counts, rash, or fatigue
Important warnings
- Can cause serious liver problems and low blood counts; monitoring is required.
- Seek urgent assessment for severe swelling, breathing difficulty, unusual bleeding, or signs of infection.
- Take with food and a large glass of water to reduce stomach irritation.
- Do not stop or change treatment without the cancer specialist's direction.
Pregnancy
May harm an unborn baby. Effective contraception is advised during treatment and for 15 days after the last dose.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment or for one month after the last dose.
Interactions
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers can change imatinib levels.
- Warfarin and other medicines affecting bleeding may require review.
- Some statins and cyclosporine may reach higher levels.
- Avoid grapefruit, which may affect imatinib levels.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.