Imatinib mesylate

Yes, the best way to take it is with food and a glass of water. This prevents irritation in the food pipe 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.

Imatinib mesylate may cause dizziness, lightheadedness or drowsiness in some people. Make sure you know how you react to it before you drive a car or operate machinery.

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. 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.

While taking Imatinib mesylate, 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. Make sure you use a method of contraception to prevent pregnancy during treatment with Imatinib mesylate. 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 Imatinib mesylate.

Yes, there are a number of medicines which interfere with Imatinib mesylate, including paracetamol. Therefore, you should not self medicate while taking Imatinib mesylate. Other medicines which interfere with Imatinib mesylate include cyclosporin, dexamethasone (a steroid), warfarin, antiviral medicines which treat AIDS. Some medicines which treat bacterial infections, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart problems, and mental disorders and depression can also affect the working of Imatinib mesylate. Consult your doctor before taking any medicine, and inform him that you are on Imatinib mesylate therapy.

Imatinib mesylate has proved effective in many cases of CML. It is also noticed that the chances of survival increase after taking this medicine. Consult your doctor to know how effective this medicine is for you. Your doctor will inform you after analyzing your current state, blood test results, response to treatment, any other medical illness which you may be having.