Imatinib is a kinase inhibitor that helps in blocking the abnormal protein that signals cancer cells to multiply. This helps stop the spread of cancer cells. It is used to treat certain types of Leukemia, Gastrointestinal stomach tumors, and Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans. 

How Should Imatinib Be Taken?

Imatinib is available as an oral tablet. You can take it once or twice a day, it is often taken with a meal and a large glass of water. Imatinib should be taken every day at around the same time(s). 

Ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any instructions on your prescription label that you are unsure about following. Follow the imatinib directions properly. Never take it in larger or less amounts or more frequently than directed by your doctor.

Do not chew or crush the tablets; instead, swallow them whole. If you accidentally touch or come into contact with a crushed tablet, wash the area well with water.

You can put all of the imatinib tablets you need for one dosage into a glass of water or apple juice if you are unable to swallow them. For each 100 mg tablet, use 50 milliliters (about 2 ounces) of fluids, and for each 400 mg tablet, use 200 milliliters (about 7 ounces). Drink the fluid right away after stirring with a spoon until the pills have fully crumbled.

During your therapy, your doctor may change the imatinib dose you are taking. The effectiveness of the drug for you and any adverse effects you encounter will determine this. Discuss your health and the way you’re feeling during your treatment with your doctor. 

Imatinib should still be used even if you feel alright. Imatinib should not be stopped without first seeing your doctor.

Other Uses Of Imatinib

To know other uses of Imatinib, contact your local pharmacist or your doctor. 

Special Precautions Before Taking Imatinib

• If you have any allergies, including imatinib, other drugs, or any of the substances in imatinib tablets, notify your doctor right away. Request a list of the components from your pharmacist.
• Tell your doctor or pharmacist all the medications you have been taking or are planning to take, as Imatinib can react negatively with a lot of medications. 
• Tell your doctor if you’re consuming any herbal supplement, especially St. John’s wort.
• Inform your doctor if you ever had kidney, heart, thyroid, lung or liver disease. 
• If you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant, let your doctor know. Before beginning therapy, you will need to take a pregnancy test. You should not become pregnant while taking imatinib and for 14 days following your last dose. Consult your physician about birth control options you can take while undergoing therapy. Call your doctor if you conceive while taking imatinib.
• Inform your doctor if you are nursing a baby while using imatinib and for one month following your final dosage, you shouldn’t breastfeed.
• Inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking imatinib if you are undergoing surgery.
• Prior to understanding how this drug affects you, avoid using machinery or driving a car.

How can I save money on Imatinib Medication?

With the NSURx Prescription Benefit Card, you may save up to 80% on Imatinib at over 35,000 pharmacies across the United States. This might save you THOUSANDS of dollars each time you fill your script.

The more you shop with NSURx, the more NSUR Coins you will receive as a reward, which you can make purchases on our online store.