TabletsClinical Overview
Imatinib Mesylate Tablets (400mg) is a revolutionary first-generation small-molecule protein tyrosine kinase inhibitor on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. It binds selectively to the ATP-binding pocket of the BCR-ABL chimeric tyrosine kinase (Philadelphia chromosome t(9;22)), locking it into an inactive conformation and terminating aberrant downstream proliferation signaling. Also potently inhibits receptor tyrosine kinases for platelet-derived growth factor (PDGFR) and stem cell factor (c-KIT / CD117). Indicated for newly diagnosed and chronic phase Philadelphia chromosome-positive Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (Ph+ CML), Ph+ Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), and c-KIT-positive Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GIST).
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients
Verified Clinical References
Usage Guidelines
Take orally once daily (400 mg or 600 mg daily) with a meal and a full large glass of water (at least 250 mL) to minimize gastrointestinal and esophageal irritation. Swallow the tablet whole; if unable to swallow, dissolve tablet in a glass of water or apple juice and consume immediately.
General Administration Advice: Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage, frequency, and treatment course. For oral medications, swallow with sufficient water. Never stop antibiotics, psychiatric medications, or antihypertensives abruptly without clinical direction.
Possible Side Effects
Common: Superficial periorbital and facial edema, lower extremity fluid retention, muscle cramps/spasms, nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, rash, transaminase elevations. Rare/Severe: Severe fluid retention (pleural/pericardial effusion, ascites), severe hepatotoxicity, gastrointestinal perforation in GIST tumors, and congestive heart failure.
*Note: Individual physiological responses vary. While many patients experience few or no side effects, notify your treating physician if adverse reactions persist or if hypersensitivity (angioedema, skin rash, dyspnea) occurs.
Precautions & Warnings
Weigh patients regularly and monitor for sudden fluid accumulation. Perform complete blood counts and liver function tests monthly. Dose reductions required in severe hepatic or renal dysfunction. Substrate of CYP3A4; avoid grapefruits and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors/inducers.
Schedule H (Prescription Required)
This medication is scheduled under statutory drug regulatory frameworks (CDSCO / Drugs & Cosmetics Rules). Dispensing requires a valid medical prescription from a registered medical practitioner. Self-medication or unsupervised dosage adjustment carries significant clinical risks.
Medical Disclaimer: Statutory Clinical Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational and price-transparency purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, oncological diagnosis, or chemotherapy protocol guidance. Cancer therapies require specialized administration under the direct supervision of a registered medical oncologist in an accredited healthcare facility.