Gleevec Buy Online
Gleevec Buy Online (generic name: imatinib mesylate) is an oral prescription medication used primarily to treat certain types of cancer. It belongs to a class of drugs called tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), which target specific proteins involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. By blocking these proteins, Gleevec helps slow or stop cancer progression.
Uses of Gleevec
Gleevec is FDA-approved treatment of several cancers and conditions, including:
- Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML):
- Gleevec is widely used to treat Philadelphia chromosome-positive (Ph+) CML, a type of leukemia where an abnormal chromosome drives cancer cell growth.
- Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL):
- It is used in adults and children with Ph+ ALL, another type of blood cancer driven by the Philadelphia chromosome.
- Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs):
- Gleevec treats GISTs, which are rare cancers of the digestive tract, often caused by mutations in the KIT or PDGFRA genes.
- Other Conditions:
- Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans (DFSP): A rare type of skin cancer.
- Hypereosinophilic Syndrome (HES): A condition involving high levels of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell).
- Chronic Eosinophilic Leukemia (CEL): A blood cancer involving eosinophils.
- Myelodysplastic/Myeloproliferative Diseases (MDS/MPD): Disorders involving abnormal blood cell production.
How Gleevec Works
Gleevec targets specific enzymes known as tyrosine kinases, which play a key role in cell growth and division. By inhibiting these enzymes:
- It blocks signals that promote cancer cell growth.
- It helps reduce the size and spread of tumors.
For instance:
- In CML and Ph+ ALL, Gleevec blocks the BCR-ABL protein, an abnormal tyrosine kinase caused by the Philadelphia chromosome.
- In GISTs, it inhibits mutated KIT and PDGFRA proteins that drive tumor growth.
Dosage and Administration
- Typical Dosage:
- For CML: 400 mg to 800 mg daily, depending on the phase of the disease.
- For GIST: 400 mg daily.
- Dosages may vary for other conditions or based on individual patient factors.
- Administration:
- Take Gleevec with a meal and a full glass of water to reduce stomach upset.
- Swallow tablets whole; do not crush or chew them.
- Missed Doses:
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s close to the next dose. Do not double the dose.
Potential Side Effects
Like all medications, Gleevec may cause side effects. These are generally manageable, but some can be serious.
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Fatigue.
- Swelling (especially around the eyes and ankles).
- Muscle cramps or joint pain.
- Skin rash.
Serious Side Effects:
- Fluid Retention: Severe swelling, especially in the lungs or around the heart.
- Liver Toxicity: Signs include yellowing of the skin (jaundice) or dark urine.
- Low Blood Cell Counts: Leading to increased risk of infection, bruising, or bleeding.
- Heart Problems: Rare but may include heart failure.
When to Contact a Doctor:
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as severe swelling, difficulty breathing, unusual bleeding, or signs of infection.
Precautions and Warnings
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
- Gleevec may harm an unborn baby. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during treatment.
- Avoid breastfeeding while taking Gleevec, as it can pass into breast milk.
- Drug Interactions:
- Gleevec may interact with other medications, including:
- Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin).
- Certain antibiotics and antifungals.
- Seizure medications.
- Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice, which can increase Gleevec levels in the blood.
- Gleevec may interact with other medications, including:
- Liver or Kidney Disease:
- Patients with liver or kidney impairment may need adjusted doses.
- Monitoring:
- Regular blood tests are required to monitor liver function, blood cell counts, and overall response to treatment.
Advantages of Gleevec
- Targeted Therapy: Specifically blocks cancer-driving proteins with minimal impact on healthy cells.
- Oral Administration: Convenient compared to intravenous chemotherapy.
- Proven Effectiveness: Significantly improves survival rates for CML and GIST patients.
Conclusion
Gleevec revolutionized the treatment of certain cancers, particularly CML and GIST, by providing a highly targeted approach with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy. Patients prescribed Gleevec should work closely with their healthcare provider to monitor its effectiveness and manage any potential side effects.
