Imatinib belongs to a class of medications called tyrosine kinase inhibitors. It blocks the action of abnormal proteins that signal cancer cells to multiply, which stops the growth of malignant tumours. It is used to treat leukemia (cancer that begins in the white blood cells), gastrointestinal stromal tumour, and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (a type of skin cancer).
Imatinib is available as tablets and capsules. It should be taken with food. Take Imatinib with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. Your doctor will advise you on the dosage and frequency depending on your condition.
Advanced hypereosinophilic syndrome or chronic eosinophilic leukaemia
Adult
100-400 mg once daily.
Gastrointestinal stromal tumour
Adult
In patients with c-kit (CD117)-positive unresectable or metastatic malignant cases: 400 mg once daily.
Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans
Adult
400 mg twice daily when the tumour is unresectable, recurrent or metastatic, or the patient cannot undergo surgery.
Common side effects of Imatinib include drowsiness, blurred vision, headache, weakness, tiredness, nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, stomach pain, loss of appetite, change in taste, joint swelling or pain, rash, dry or itchy skin, hair loss, nail changes, and dry eyes.
People allergic to Imatinib or any component of the formulation.
Common dosing schedule:
Imatinib is taken once or twice daily with meals. Try to take it at the same time each day.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Imatinib may interact with:
Imatinib may interact with many other medications. Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Imatinib is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Imatinib in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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