Glivec 400mg is a targeted therapy used to treat certain types of blood cancers and gastrointestinal tumors. It works by inhibiting specific tyrosine kinases responsible for the growth of cancer cells.
Glivec 400mg, manufactured by Novartis, is a brand of Imatinib Mesylate, a first-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). It has revolutionized the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), and other cancers by selectively inhibiting abnormal proteins that promote cancer cell proliferation.
Uses:
Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML)
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) – Philadelphia chromosome-positive
Imatinib selectively inhibits BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase, an abnormal enzyme produced by cancerous white blood cells.
It blocks signals that cause the cancer cells to grow and divide
It also inhibits other kinases such as c-KIT and PDGFR
This leads to the apoptosis (death) of abnormal cells, reducing tumor size and leukemia burden
Side Effects:
Common Side Effects:
Nausea and vomiting
Muscle cramps
Rash
Fatigue
Fluid retention and swelling
Abdominal pain
Severe Side Effects:
Liver toxicity
Myelosuppression (low blood counts)
Heart problems
Gastrointestinal bleeding
Tumor lysis syndrome
Severe skin reactions
Dosage (Typical Recommended Dose):
CML (Chronic Phase): 400 mg once daily
CML (Accelerated or Blast Crisis): 600 mg once daily
GIST: 400–600 mg once daily
Dosage may vary based on indication and patient tolerance
Adjusted under physician guidance in case of side effects or resistance
Method of Administration:
Take orally with a large glass of water
Preferably with food to reduce stomach irritation
Do not break or crush the tablet
Take at the same time daily
Precautions:
Regular blood tests needed to monitor liver function and blood counts
Caution in patients with heart, liver, or kidney issues
Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding
Use effective contraception during treatment
Avoid use in children unless specifically prescribed
Drug Interactions:
Avoid with CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin) – may increase toxicity
Avoid with CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, phenytoin) – may reduce effectiveness
Interacts with acetaminophen, warfarin, and certain antibiotics
Avoid grapefruit juice – may alter drug levels
Allergies:
Do not use in patients with known hypersensitivity to Imatinib or any tablet components
Watch for signs like hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of lips/tongue
Overdose Information:
Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fluid retention
Seek immediate medical help in case of suspected overdose
No specific antidote; supportive care is provided
Missed Dose Instructions:
Take the missed dose as soon as remembered
If it's close to the next dose, skip the missed dose
Do not double dose to make up for a missed one
Additional Notes:
Patients must be regularly monitored for blood counts and organ function
Long-term use is common; adherence to dosing schedule is crucial
Avoid taking herbal supplements without physician consultation
Inform your doctor before any surgery or new medications
Product Intro:
Glivec 400mg, manufactured by Novartis, is a brand of Imatinib Mesylate, a first-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). It has revolutionized the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), and other cancers by selectively inhibiting abnormal proteins that promote cancer cell proliferation.
Uses:
Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML)
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) – Philadelphia chromosome-positive
