Abstract

Imatinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor and potently inhibits protein tyrosine kinases which include BCR-ABL which is constitutively active in CML. It targets the ATP binding site of receptors. The present investigation was carried out to monitor the adverse reactions of the drug Imatinib mesylate prescribed for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients of different phases. All subjects defined as per the inclusion criteria were included in the study after obtaining the written informed consent. Detailed histories of the patients were gathered by discussions held with the doctors, nurses and the patient attendees. Disease responses were assessed with respect to BCR-ABL. Patients were then checked for the preexisting adverse reactions and were first treated for that before they were included in the study. Later these patients were treated with Tab Imatinib 400 mg once daily. With regular visit and interaction with the patients and by studying the reports, adverse reactions were recorded with the guidance of doctors. Adverse drug reactions (ADR s) of Imatinib were classified based on various criteria viz. gender, phases of CML, age, hematological and non- hematological adverse events and it was observed that there were no significant correlation with age and phases of CML. Out of 83 patients who were included in the study, it was found that CML is more common in males and between the age group of 30-39 yrs. Most of the patients were diagnosed when they were in chronic phase. The common non- hematological adverse effects that were observed was abdominal pain, head ache, GI disturbances etc. and few patients experienced hematological adverse effects such as thrombocytopenia, anemia etc.