Uses of Glivec Anticancer Drug and Pertinent Information about the Medicine

Glivec is the brand name of the medicine Imatinib Mesylate and is used in the chemotherapy treatment of certain types of cancer. These include blood cancers, specifically, chronic myelogenous leukemia and acute lymphocytic leukemia, bone marrow and skin cancers, stomach and digestive system tumors of certain types. Glivec anticancer drug works as an inhibitor by stopping or slowing the growth of cancerous cells.

Administration and Absorption Process

Glivec is available in tablet form and is prescribed for oral intake. The general dosage available in the market is Gleevec 400mg, an oncologist’s prescription and guidance are required for its effective administration of the patient. You should take it after a full meal with a glass of water in the prescribed dosage only. It is most effective when taken orally as it is highly ‘bio-available’; almost 98% of the medicine reaches the bloodstream. The liver is the main metabolism organ of Imatinib Mesylate drug and it moves out of our system mostly through bile and excretion.

Working Mechanism

Imatinib Mesylate 400mg dosage works as a specialized tyrosine kinase enzyme inhibitor medicine. It takes over the active enzyme site of the cell, reducing its activity gradually. The tyrosine kinase protein cell blocks or inhibits this area, thus hampering the enzyme activity of the cancerous cell. In some tumors, this process allows the entry of the drug into the nucleus of the cancerous cell, thus causing its death.

Precautions

Avoid heavy physical activity during the course of this medication, as Gleevec may cause drowsiness, blurred vision or dizziness. Also, refrain from driving or operating heavy machinery. Stay in a clean and sterile atmosphere as far as possible and avoid people with any kind of infections as the drug may temporarily weaken your immune system. Before starting your chemotherapy course after buying generic Gleevec Tablets as per the doctor’s advice, make sure you have informed him in case you have any of the following complications or diseases.

• Any kind of allergies
• Liver or kidney problems and medications
• Thyroid gland issues
• Heart diseases
• Any kind of stomach ulcers
• Pregnancy or planning for the same

Side Effects

Gleevec causes many side effects due to its ability to destroy specific types of cells rapidly. During the course of your chemotherapy, keep your physician informed in case you feel any kind of prolonged physical discomfort. This drug temporarily lowers the immune system’s ability; in case you are suffering from any kind of infections, consult your doctor immediately. Also, note the possible side effects mentioned below.

• Back pain
• Rashes
• Kidney function impairment (muscle spasms, pink urine)
• Nausea/vomiting
• Diarrhea

Imatinib or Glivec is an effective medicine for types of blood cancer and of abdominal tumors. It works by inhibiting the tyrosine kinase protein causing cell death. You should be cautious and aware of side effects during its medical course.

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