Imatinib (Systemic)

Brand Names : Gleevec

Proper Use of This Medicine

Take imatinib only as directed by your doctor . Do not use more or less of it, and do not use it more often than your doctor ordered. The exact amount of medicine you need has been carefully worked out. Taking too much may increase the chance of side effects, while taking too little may not improve your condition.

This medicine should be taken with a tall glass of water and a meal.

Do not take imatinib with grapefruit, grapefruit juice, or grapefruit-containing foods or supplements.

Dosing - The dose of imatinib will be different for different patients. The dose that is used may depend on a number of things, how you are responding to the medicine and whether or not it is affecting your blood cells. If you are taking imatinib at home, follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label . If you have any questions about the proper dose of imatinib, ask your doctor.

Missed dose - If you miss a dose of this medicine, do not take the missed dose at all and do not double the next one. Instead, go back to your regular dosing schedule and check with your doctor.

Storage - To store this medicine:

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store away from heat and direct light.
• Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. Heat or moisture may cause the medicine to break down.
• Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.