Glivec 400mg Tablet
Manufacturer
Novartis India Ltd
Salt Composition
Imatinib mesylate (400mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Glivec 400mg Tablet is used to treat several types of cancers, including blood cancers and gastrointestinal stromal tumors.
Dosage Form
Tablet
Introduction
Glivec 400mg Tablet is an anti-cancer medication that works by targeting specific proteins that contribute to the growth and spread of cancer cells. It is most commonly prescribed to treat blood cancers (chronic myeloid leukemia and acute lymphocytic leukemia) and gastrointestinal stromal tumors. The medicine should be taken with food. Take it at the same time each day to get the most benefit. Continue taking it as long as your doctor advises for it. The duration of treatment varies according to your need and response to treatment. Taking it in the wrong way or taking too much can cause very serious side effects. It may take several weeks or months for you to see or feel the benefits but do not stop taking it unless your doctor tells you to.
Directions for Use
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Glivec 400mg Tablet is to be taken with food.
How it works
Glivec 400mg Tablet is an anti-cancer medication. A protein enzyme bcr-abl tyrosine kinase responsible for the growth of abnormal proliferation of cancer cells. This medicine inhibits the proliferation and induces apoptosis (planned cell death) in bcr-abl positive cells (cancer cells). This is how it works to stop or slow the spread of cancer.
Quick Tips
Always take it with food and a full glass of water to prevent nausea. It may cause dizziness or blurred vision. Do not drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you. Water retention and swelling are very common side effects of Glivec 400mg Tablet. Notify your doctor if you have unexpected rapid weight gain. Do not change the dose or discontinue use without consulting your doctor. Notify your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including over the counter medicines and dietary supplements.
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Frequently asked questions
Can Glivec 400mg Tablet be taken with food?
Yes, the best way to take it is with a glass of water and food. This prevents irritation in the esophagus and stomach. If you cannot swallow it, put the tablets in a glass of water or apple juice (approximately 50 ml for a 100 mg tablet and 200 ml for a 400 mg tablet). Stir it with a spoon to make it uniform and drink it immediately.
Is it safe to drive while taking Glivec 400mg Tablet?
Glivec 400mg Tablet may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or drowsiness in some people. Make sure you know how you react to it before driving a car or operating machinery.
What precautions need to be taken while taking Glivec 400mg Tablet?
While taking Glivec 400mg Tablet, make sure you follow all the instructions given by your doctor carefully and keep all appointments. You will need regular follow-up to ensure that the treatment is working. Regular blood tests, weight checks, and urine tests may be required to find out any side effects before it becomes serious. Ensure you use a method of contraception to prevent pregnancy during treatment with Glivec 400mg Tablet. Tell your doctor immediately if you become pregnant while you are taking this medicine. If you are about to start taking any new medicine, remind your doctor that you are taking Glivec 400mg Tablet.
Is there a link between sun exposure and skin reactions after starting Glivec 400mg Tablet?
This medicine may make your skin much more sensitive to sunlight than it normally is. Exposure to sunlight may cause skin rashes, itching, redness, or severe sunburn. When you are outdoors, wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. If you feel a burning sensation on your skin, tell your doctor.
I am experiencing rashes and severe itching when I have sun exposure. Is this related to the medication, my disease, or something else?
This medicine may make your skin much more sensitive to sunlight than it normally is. Exposure to sunlight may cause skin rash, itching, redness, or severe sunburn. Use protective clothing and use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher when outdoors. If you feel a burning sensation on your skin, tell your doctor.
I have been advised by my doctor not to take any medication on my own while taking Glivec 400mg Tablet. Should I consult my doctor even if I need paracetamol for a fever?
Yes, there are several medications that interfere with Glivec 400mg Tablet. Paracetamol falls into this category. You should not self-medicate while on Glivec 400mg Tablet. Other medicines that might interact with Glivec 400mg Tablet include cyclosporin, dexamethasone (a steroid), warfarin, antiviral medications used to treat AIDS, and some antibiotics for bacterial infections, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart problems, mental disorders, and depression. It's crucial to consult your doctor before taking any medication and let them know you are on Glivec 400mg Tablet therapy.
Will regular use of Glivec 400mg Tablet help me get cured of CML?
Glivec 400mg Tablet has been effective in many cases of CML. It also shows an increase in survival rates after taking this medicine. Your doctor can give you a more detailed answer based on your current condition, blood test results, treatment response, and other potential medical conditions.
