How it is administered

Imatinib is taken by mouth, usually as a tablet or oral solution. Tablets are available in 100 mg and 400 mg strengths, and the oral solution contains 80 mg per mL. It should be taken with a meal and a large glass of water to help reduce stomach upset. For those who have difficulty swallowing tablets, the tablets can be dissolved in water or apple juice. The oral solution should be measured with an accurate measuring device, not a household spoon.

How it works

Imatinib is a type of medicine called a protein-tyrosine kinase inhibitor. It works by blocking the action of abnormal proteins (like BCR-ABL) that signal cancer cells to grow. In certain blood cancers, such as Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL), this abnormal protein is present and drives the growth of cancer cells.

By blocking this protein, imatinib stops the growth and division of these cancer cells and can lead to their death. It also inhibits other proteins involved in cell growth, such as c-Kit and PDGFR, which can be important in other cancers. This targeted approach helps slow down or stop the progression of the disease, and in some cases, can lead to remission.

Who Should take it

Imatinib is used to treat adults and children with certain blood cancers, including Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL), which is closely related to lymphoblastic lymphoma. It is also used for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative diseases, and other rare cancers.

For lymphoblastic lymphoma, if the cancer cells have the Philadelphia chromosome (Ph+), imatinib is often given in combination with chemotherapy. It is prescribed for both newly diagnosed and relapsed/refractory cases. Your doctor will determine if imatinib is right for you based on specific genetic tests and your overall health.

Who should not take it

There are no absolute contraindications listed for imatinib, but it should be used with caution in certain situations. People with severe liver or kidney problems may need dose adjustments or closer monitoring. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should avoid imatinib, as it can harm the unborn baby. Breastfeeding is also not recommended during and for one month after treatment.

People who are allergic to imatinib or any of its ingredients should not take it. Always inform your doctor about all your medical conditions and medications before starting imatinib.

Commonly used with

For lymphoblastic lymphoma and Ph+ ALL, imatinib is typically used together with multi-agent chemotherapy. This combination has been shown to improve outcomes compared to chemotherapy alone. Other supportive medications, such as anti-nausea drugs, antibiotics, or growth factors to boost blood counts, may also be used as part of your treatment plan.

Commonly tested with

Imatinib is often studied and used in combination with various chemotherapy regimens for Ph+ ALL and lymphoblastic lymphoma. It has also been compared to other tyrosine kinase inhibitors in clinical trials. Your doctor may order regular blood tests to monitor your blood counts, liver and kidney function, and to check for the presence of the Philadelphia chromosome or BCR-ABL gene to assess how well the treatment is working.