Imalek Tablet (Imatinib mesylate)

Introductions of Imalek Tablet

Imalek Tablet (Imatinib mesylate) is a medication used to treat certain types of cancer, such as chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), and certain types of skin cancer. This Medication contains the active ingredient Imatinib mesylate. It works by inhibiting the activity of certain enzymes called tyrosine kinases that are involved in the growth and division of cancer cells. This helps to slow down or stop the growth of cancer cells and may lead to the shrinkage of tumors.
Imalek Tablet is available in various strengths and forms, such as tablets and capsules, and is typically taken orally as directed by a healthcare provider.

Dosage

The dosage of Imalek Tablet (Imatinib mesylate) depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated, as well as the patient's age and overall health. It is important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and administration.

For Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML):

• Newly diagnosed chronic-phase CML: The recommended dose is 400 mg orally once daily, with or without food.
• Chronic-phase CML resistant or intolerant to interferon-alpha therapy: The recommended dose is 400 mg orally once daily, with or without food.
• Accelerated-phase or blast-phase CML: The recommended dose is 600 mg orally once daily, with or without food.

For Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs):

• Unresectable and/or metastatic malignant GIST: The recommended dose is 400 mg orally once daily, with or without food.
• Adjuvant treatment of adult patients after complete resection of Kit-positive GIST: The recommended dose is 400 mg orally once daily, with or without food, for a total of 3 years of treatment.

For Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans (DFSP):

• Unresectable, recurrent and/or metastatic DFSP: The recommended dose is 800 mg orally once daily, with or without food.
It is important to take Imalek Tablet at the same time each day and to swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablets. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible, but do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose. If you have any questions about the dosage or administration of Imalek Tablet, talk to your healthcare provider.

Imalek Tablet also Fight Soft Tissue Sarcoma

Imalek Tablet (Imatinib mesylate) can be used to treat certain types of Soft Tissue Sarcoma (STS) that have a specific genetic mutation known as a c-Kit mutation. STS refers to a group of cancers that develop in the soft tissues of the body, including muscles, tendons, fat, and blood vessels.
Imalek Tablet works by inhibiting the activity of certain enzymes called tyrosine kinases that are involved in the growth and division of cancer cells. This helps to slow down or stop the growth of cancer cells and may lead to the shrinkage of tumors.

The effectiveness of the Imalek Tablet in treating STS may depend on the specific subtype of STS being treated, as well as the patient's individual characteristics and medical history. Imalek Tablet may be used alone or in combination with other treatments, such as surgery or radiation therapy.

Uses

1. Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): Imalek Tablet is used to treat adults and children with newly diagnosed chronic-phase CML, as well as patients with chronic-phase CML who have failed or cannot tolerate interferon-alpha therapy. Imalek Tablet for CML is best for adults and children.

2. Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs): Imalek Tablet is used to treat adult patients with unresectable and/or metastatic malignant GIST, as well as for the adjuvant treatment of adult patients after complete resection of Kit-positive GIST. Imalek Tablet for GIST is best for adult patients.

3. Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans (DFSP): Imalek Tablet is used to treat adult patients with unresectable, recurrent, and/or metastatic DFSP.
Imalek Tablet is an inhibitor of certain enzymes called tyrosine kinases, which are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. By blocking these enzymes, Imalek Tablet slows down or stops the growth of cancer cells, which may lead to the shrinkage of tumors.

Side effects

1. Nausea and vomiting
2. Diarrhea
3. Abdominal pain
4. Fatigue
5. Headache
6. Muscle cramps and pain
7. Skin rash or itching
8. Fluid retention (swelling of hands, feet, or face)
9. Low blood cell counts (anemia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia)

Some less common but more serious side effects of Imalek Tablet may include:

1. Heart problems, such as fluid buildup around the heart or irregular heartbeat
2. Liver damage or liver function abnormalities
3. Kidney problems or kidney function abnormalities
4. Severe bleeding or bruising
5. Lung problems, such as fluid buildup in the lungs or difficulty breathing
6. Severe skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis
7. Tumor lysis syndrome, a condition that can occur when cancer cells break down rapidly and release their contents into the bloodstream

Warning and Precautions

Imalek Tablet contains Imatinib mesylate, which is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of cancer and other diseases. Here are some important warnings and precautions to keep in mind when taking Imalek Tablet:

1. Allergic reactions: If you are allergic to Imatinib or any of its ingredients, you should not take Imalek tablets. Signs of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, hives, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

2. Liver problems: Imatinib can cause liver damage, and your doctor may need to monitor your liver function tests regularly while you are taking Imalek tablets. Inform your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms of liver damage, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, abdominal pain, or persistent nausea or vomiting.

3. Low blood counts: Imatinib can cause a decrease in the number of blood cells in your body, including white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. This can increase your risk of infection, anemia, and bleeding. Your doctor may perform regular blood tests to monitor your blood counts while you are taking Imalek Tablet.

4. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Imatinib can harm a developing fetus, and it is not recommended for use during pregnancy. It is also not known whether Imatinib passes into breast milk, so it is important to discuss with your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed.

5. Other medications: Inform your doctor if you are taking any other medications, including over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins, as they may interact with Imatinib.

6. Other medical conditions: If you have a history of heart problems, kidney problems, or lung problems, or if you are taking medication for depression, anxiety, or seizures, it is important to inform your doctor before starting Imalek Tablet.

Concerns

What happens if I stop taking IMALEK 100MG TABLET on my own?

Do not stop taking IMALEK 100MG TABLET unless your doctor tells you to stop even if the condition improves. If you are not able to take the IMALEK 100MG TABLET as your doctor prescribed or feel you do not need it anymore, contact your doctor immediately.

It is safe to drive after taking IMALEK 100MG TABLET?

In some patients IMALEK 100MG TABLET may cause dizziness, drowsiness or blurred vision. So, it is better to avoid driving or operating any machine after taking IMALEK 100MG TABLET. Consult your doctor for advice before taking it.

Can I take IMALEK 100MG TABLET during pregnancy?

IMALEK 100MG TABLET is generally not recommended for use in pregnant women unless advised by the doctor. Women who might become pregnant are advised to use effective contraceptive measures during treatment and for 15 days after ending the treatment. Consult your doctor before taking this medicine.

How does IMALEK 100MG TABLET work?

IMALEK 100MG TABLET is a protein-tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Tyrosine kinases are proteins which act as chemical messengers that are used by the cancer cells to signal each other for their growth, therefore this medicine works by blocking the enzyme which stops the cancer cells from growing.

Can IMALEK 100MG TABLET be used in patients with liver problems?

IMALEK 100MG TABLET should be used with caution in patients with liver problems and hepatitis B infection. Your doctor may monitor your liver function during and after treatment with this medicine to prevent the risk of any unusual effects. Consult your doctor before taking it.

Interactions

Before taking IMALEK 100MG TABLET, inform your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:

• Medicines used to treat fever and pain (Ex. paracetamol)
• St. john’s wort (used to treat depression)
• Medicines used to prevent blood clots (Ex. clopidogrel)
• Medicine used to treat thyroid (levothyroxine)

Safety advice

1. Always take Imalek Tablet exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not change your dosage or stop taking the medication without first consulting your healthcare provider.

2. Do not crush or chew the tablets, as this may affect the way the medication is absorbed in your body.

3. Imalek Tablet may interact with other medications or supplements you are taking, so be sure to inform your healthcare provider of all the medications you are currently taking.

4. Imalek Tablet may cause dizziness or blurred vision, so use caution when driving or operating machinery.

5. Do not drink grapefruit juice or eat grapefruit while taking Imalek Tablet, as this may increase the levels of the medication in your blood.

6. Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of liver, kidney, or heart problems, as well as any bleeding or clotting disorders.

7. Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Imalek Tablet may harm an unborn baby or pass into breast milk and harm a nursing baby.

8. Imalek Tablet may cause a decrease in blood cell counts, so your healthcare provider may order regular blood tests to monitor your blood counts while taking the medication.

9. Store Imalek Tablet at room temperature and keep it out of reach of children.