Imatinib

Imatinib, the active ingredient in Imatinib, is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor presented as a tablet for oral use. It treats chronic myeloid leukemia, Philadelphia chromosome‑positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia, gastrointestinal stromal tumor and other KIT‑positive solid tumors in adult patients.

GNH USA supplies Imatinib as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, oncology centres, pharmacies and clinics worldwide.

Imatinib acts on malignant cells driven by BCR‑ABL, c‑KIT and PDGFR tyrosine kinases, making it a cornerstone therapy for several hematologic and solid tumours.

- Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML): reduces malignant cell proliferation and improves long‑term survival. - Philadelphia chromosome‑positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL): achieves remission by targeting BCR‑ABL driven blasts. - Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST): inhibits KIT‑driven tumor growth, leading to disease control. - Other KIT‑positive solid tumours: provides disease stabilization in selected cases.

Adverse reactions to imatinib vary in frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects: - Nausea and vomiting - Edema, especially peripheral - Muscle cramps or pain - Fatigue or weakness - Diarrhea - Skin rash or pruritus

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Neutropenia or severe leukopenia - Thrombocytopenia with bleeding risk - Hepatotoxicity manifested by elevated transaminases - Cardiac failure or reduced left‑ventricular function - Severe skin reactions such as Stevens‑Johnson syndrome - Pulmonary hypertension or interstitial lung disease

Before initiating therapy, clinicians should assess baseline organ function and monitor patients regularly.

- Monitor blood counts: perform regular CBC to detect cytopenias. - Assess liver function: check hepatic enzymes periodically. - Evaluate cardiac status: watch for signs of heart failure or reduced ejection fraction. - Avoid use in patients with known hypersensitivity to imatinib or its excipients. - Store at ambient temperature below 25°C: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture.

Imatinib is metabolised primarily by CYP3A4, so co‑administered drugs can alter its exposure.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole): may increase imatinib plasma levels and toxicity. - Strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine): may reduce efficacy by lowering drug concentrations. - Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium: can decrease oral absorption if taken simultaneously.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Warfarin: imatinib may potentiate anticoagulant effect, requiring INR monitoring. - Digoxin: possible increase in serum digoxin levels, monitor for toxicity. - CYP3A4 substrate drugs (e.g., midazolam, statins): may require dose adjustment based on clinical response.