Imkeldi (Imatinib Mesylate) for Leukemia

Overview
Imkeldi is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat certain types of leukemia. This includes newly diagnosed Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia (Ph-positive CML) in its chronic phase and Ph-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) that has relapsed (returned) or does not respond to treatment. The eligibility for this medication depends on the specific type and stage of leukemia. Imkeldi is also known by its drug name, imatinib mesylate.

Imkeldi is a kinase inhibitor, which means it blocks certain proteins that help cancer cells grow and survive. By targeting these proteins, Imkeldi helps slow down or stop the progression of leukemia.

How do I take it?
Imkeldi is taken orally as a solution. It is generally taken once or twice per day, depending on the dose size. It should be consumed with a meal and a large glass of water to reduce stomach upset. The dose for adults with Ph-positive CML depends on the stage of the disease, while doses for children are adjusted based on body size. It is important to measure the solution accurately using a device such as an oral syringe. Always follow the exact instructions provided by your health care provider.

Side effects
According to the prescribing label, common side effects of Imkeldi include edema (fluid retention), nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle cramps, fatigue, rash, abdominal (stomach) discomfort, and muscle or joint pain.

Rare but serious side effects may include severe fluid retention and edema, blood-related issues like anemia, neutropenia (low white blood cell count), and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), and heart problems such as congestive heart failure or left ventricular dysfunction. Serious liver damage, bleeding (including gastrointestinal bleeding), and gastrointestinal perforations (holes in the stomach or intestines) have been reported.

Other rare effects include hypereosinophilic cardiac toxicity (which can lead to heart dysfunction), severe skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and hypothyroidism in people on levothyroxine who have undergone a thyroidectomy Growth retardation may occur in children, and tumor lysis syndrome (rapid breakdown of tumor cells) is possible. Renal (kidney) function may decline, and some people have experienced motor vehicle accidents. Accurate dosing is critical to avoid overdose.

For more information about this treatment, visit:

Imkeldi (Imatinib) Oral Solution — U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Imkeldi FDA Approval History — Drugs.com