Imatinib Sandoz
Imatinib Sandoz is a medicine that contains imatinib, which works by stopping the growth of abnormal cells in certain cancers and other diseases.
Form
tabletti, kalvopäällysteinen
Strength
400 mg
Active Ingredient
Imatinib mesylate
Manufacturer
Sandoz A/S
How to Use
Dosage
Typically, the starting dose for adults is 400 mg once daily.
Method
Take Imatinib Sandoz with food and a large glass of water to avoid stomach problems. Swallow the tablets whole. If you cannot swallow them, you can dissolve them in a glass of non-carbonated water or apple juice (approx. 50 ml per 100 mg tablet, or 200 ml per 400 mg tablet). Stir until dissolved and drink immediately.
Important
The maximum daily dose for adults is generally 800 mg, which may be split into two doses.
Possible Side Effects
COMMON
- •Rapid weight gain (fluid retention)
- •Headache or tiredness
- •Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or indigestion
- •Rash
- •Muscle cramps or pain in joints, muscles, or bones
- •Swelling around eyes or ankles
RARE
- •Chest pain or irregular heartbeat (signs of heart problems)
- •Cough, breathing difficulties or painful breathing (signs of lung problems)
- •Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting (signs of low blood pressure)
- •Nausea with loss of appetite, dark urine, or yellowing of skin or eyes (signs of liver problems)
- •Severe abdominal pain, blood in vomit, stool or urine, or black stools (signs of digestive tract problems)
- •Confusion or nail discoloration
Important Warnings
- Do not take Imatinib Sandoz if you are allergic to imatinib or any of its other ingredients.
- Tell your doctor if you have or have had liver, kidney, or heart problems.
- Tell your doctor if you have ever had hepatitis B, as this medicine can reactivate it, which could be fatal in some cases.
- Report sudden weight gain to your doctor immediately, as it may be fluid retention (severe swelling).
- Be extra careful in the sun; use high SPF sunscreen and cover exposed skin, as this medicine can make you more sensitive to sunlight.
Show 3 more warnings
- Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding; use effective contraception during and for 15 days after treatment.
- This medicine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision; do not drive or use machines if affected.
- Contact your doctor immediately if you experience bruising, bleeding, fever, extreme tiredness, and confusion, as these could be signs of blood vessel damage (thrombotic microangiopathy).