Imatinib mesylate (
Gleevec®) is a
tyrosine kinase inhibitor, which is a class of chemotherapy medicines. This medication can be used in the treatment of certain types of cancer, such as:
- Leukemia and other cancers of the blood and bone marrow
- Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST, a cancer of the digestive tract)
- A rare type of skin cancer known as dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans.
Imatinib comes in tablet form and is available in the following strengths:
- Imatinib 100 mg
- Imatinib 400 mg.
(Click Imatinib to learn about possible side effects, how your healthcare provider will determine your dose, what to do in cases of overdose, and more.)