A tyrosine kinase inhibitor - It targets a specific protein within cancer cells and stops the cancer... more
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Special Alerts:
[Posted 10/19/2006] Novartis and FDA notified healthcare professionals about revisions to the PRECAUTIONS section of the prescribing information, describing the occasional occurrence of severe congestive heart failure and left ventricular dysfunction in patients taking imatinib (Gleevec). Most of the patients with reported cardiac events had other co-morbidities and risk factors, including advanced age and previous medical history of cardiac disease. Patients with cardiac disease or risk factors for cardiac failure should be monitored carefully and any patients with signs or symptoms consistent with cardiac failure should be evaluated and treated. For more information visit the FDA website at: http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/safety/2006/safety06.htm#Gleevec, http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/safety/2006/Gleevec_101906_HCPletter.pdf and http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/safety/2006/Gleevec_PI_Sep2006.pdf.
IMATINIB (i MAT in ib) is a chemotherapy drug. It targets a specific protein within cancer cells and stops the cancer cells from growing. It is used to treat certain leukemias, myelodysplastic syndromes, and other cancers. It is also used to treat specific digestive tract tumors called GISTs.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Take it with food to decrease the chance of it upsetting your stomach. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.
If you have difficulty swallowing the tablets, let your doctor, pharmacist, or health care professional know. They can help you with advice.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose and skip your missed dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
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