Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) are medications used to treat various conditions such as cancer, chronic viral diseases, and some rare genetic disorders. They work by blocking essential pathways of cell signalling involved in tumour growth, and certain viral-mediated processes. While the main function of TKIs is to suppress tumour growth, they can also be effective in preventing the spread of certain viruses, modulating inflammatory diseases, and treating certain congenital disorders that are characterised by abnormal protein production.
Advances in molecular biology
At first, TKIs were thought to be a successful treatment for cancer as studies indicated that tumours could be stopped or slowed down. Since then, advances in molecular biology have revealed that these medications have a wide range of uses. Initially, TKIs were introduced to impede the phosphorylation process that occurs in tumour cells. This process is important in cell proliferation and apoptosis, which means that most TKI’s attack cells that are in the process of dividing or replicating.
Biochemical mode of action
TKIs act by inhibiting specific tyrosine kinases, which are enzymes that assist in transferring phosphate groups between amino acids in proteins. When functioning normally, these enzymes stimulate the transfer of phosphate between two tyrosines on different molecules. By inhibiting the enzyme’s activity, TKIs block the communication between different molecules, thus interfering with critical cellular activities such as cell growth and survival.
The combined form of its action
Notably, there is a wide array of tyrosine kinase inhibitors available on the market, each of which affects different pathways that regulate cell activity. These medications can be used alone or in combination with other cancer treatments for greater effectiveness.
Results from the various studies
Recently, TKIs have been used to treat other conditions such as hepatitis C, HIV, and some genetic diseases. For instance, genistein – a type of TKI found in soybeans – has been used to treat advanced stages of prostate cancer. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated that TKIs can be effective in modulating inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, type 2 diabetes, and asthma.
Imatinib 400mg tablet
Imatinib 400mg tablets, also known as Gleevec, are a chemotherapy drug used to treat leukaemia, gastrointestinal stromal tumours and other types of cancer. The drug is part of a class of medications known as tyrosine kinase inhibitors; this means it works by blocking the enzyme tyrosine kinase which cancer cells use to grow and divide.
Dose of its administration
Imatinib tablets can be taken orally; the usual dose is 400mg once per day although it may be prescribed at a lower dose of up to 200mg per day. It’s important to take each dose of the drug as instructed by your doctor as it can be toxic in larger doses. Imatinib should also be taken on an empty stomach as food can reduce its effectiveness.
Ensuring that certain tests are performed accordingly
Before starting treatment with Imatinib, you should have certain tests done to ensure you’re a suitable candidate for the drug; this may include blood tests and scans. If you’re pregnant or may become pregnant whilst taking Imatinib, you should make sure your doctor is aware; the drug should not be taken during pregnancy as it could cause harm to the baby.
Effects to be taken with precaution
The most common side effects of Imatinib are nausea, hair loss, fluid retention, muscle cramps and skin rashes. More serious side effects can include liver damage, bleeding or infection; this is why it’s important to have regular checkups with your doctor while taking Imatinib.
Not a complete cure through
It’s important to remember that Imatinib 400mg tablet doesn’t work on its own; it needs to be combined with other chemotherapy drugs to be effective. It’s also not a cure; while it can slow down the growth of cancer cells, it cannot completely get rid of the disease.
Saving potential lives
Imatinib is an important drug with the potential to save lives, but as with all medicines, it should be taken as prescribed and with care. Regular blood tests and scans should be taken to ensure that the Imatinib is working correctly. If you experience any side effects from the drug, make sure to check with your doctor immediately.
Conclusion
In conclusion, TKIs are a versatile class of medications that have been used successfully to treat a variety of cancer, viral, and genetic disorders. Their main function is to inhibit the activity of essential enzymes involved in the transfer of phosphate molecules between proteins, which can interfere with essential cellular functions such as growth and survival. Furthermore, recent studies have demonstrated that these medications can also be effective in modulating inflammatory diseases and treating certain genetic conditions.
