Gleevec

Gleevec is a targeted therapy cancer treatment used to treat specific types of leukemia (blood cancer), bone marrow disorders, skin cancers and certain tumors of the stomach and digestive system. Gleevec works by interfering with specific proteins that help tumors grow and spread through the body; they come from the family of medicines called BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase inhibitors.

Benefits

• Highly effective in treating Philadelphia chromosome-positive CML in chronic, accelerated, or blast crisis phases.
• First-line treatment for unresectable or metastatic GIST, significantly improving survival.
• Helps achieve hematologic and cytogenetic remission in many CML patients.
• Used in other rare cancers such as dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP), hypereosinophilic syndrome, and systemic mastocytosis.
• Well-studied with long-term clinical data supporting safety and efficacy.
• Oral formulation allows for at-home cancer treatment, reducing the need for infusions or hospital stays.

Dosage

• For CML (chronic phase): usually 400 mg once daily.
• For CML (accelerated/blast crisis): up to 600–800 mg daily, divided into two doses.
• For GIST: typically 400 mg once daily, can be increased to 800 mg if necessary.
• Dosing may vary depending on disease type, response, and tolerance.
• Should be taken with a meal and a large glass of water to reduce gastrointestinal irritation.

Warnings and Precautions

• May cause fluid retention and edema, especially around the eyes or legs; monitor weight and swelling.
• Can lead to myelosuppression (low white blood cells, platelets, or red cells); routine blood tests are required.
• Risk of liver toxicity; liver function should be monitored regularly.
• May affect cardiac function, especially in patients with pre-existing heart conditions.
• Can impair kidney function, particularly with long-term use.
• Use with caution in patients with GI bleeding risks or peptic ulcers.
• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Effective contraception is required during treatment and for at least 1 month after the last dose.
• Interacts with many drugs metabolized by CYP3A4; dose adjustments may be necessary.

Usage Instructions

• Take exactly as prescribed, once or twice daily, depending on the dose.
• Always take with food and a full glass of water to reduce stomach upset.
• Swallow tablets whole; do not crush, chew, or break.
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it’s close to the next dose. Do not double up.
• Continue treatment even if symptoms improve, unless advised otherwise by your doctor.

Storage Information

• Store at 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F).
• Keep in original packaging, protected from moisture and light.
• Do not store in bathrooms or near heat sources.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Common Side Effects

Mild to moderate effects: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, muscle cramps, fatigue, fluid retention (especially facial or ankle swelling), headache, rash, or joint pain.

Serious (seek medical attention): signs of liver problems (yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine), shortness of breath or chest pain, severe swelling or rapid weight gain, signs of infection (fever, sore throat), unusual bruising or bleeding, or visual disturbances.