Imkeldi (Imatinib Mesylate) for Myeloproliferative Neoplasms

Overview
Imkeldi is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat certain types of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), including Philadelphia chromosome-positive (Ph-positive) chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) in various phases and myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative diseases associated with platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) gene rearrangements. Imkeldi is also known by its chemical name, imatinib mesylate.

This medication is a kinase inhibitor, which blocks specific proteins that contribute to the abnormal growth of blood cells. By targeting these proteins, Imkeldi can help slow the progression of MPNs and reduce related symptoms.

How do I take it?
Imkeldi is taken orally as a solution. It should be consumed with a meal and a large glass of water to minimize stomach irritation. The standard dose for adults with MPNs depends on the specific condition and must be determined by a health care provider. The solution should be measured accurately using a device provided by your pharmacist, such as an oral syringe. It is crucial to follow your health care provider’s instructions exactly.

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