Is Gleevec a chemotherapy drug or a targeted therapy drug?

Glivec, also known as imatinib mesylate tablets, is a type of targeted therapy drug. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Imatinib mesylate tablets are primarily used to treat specific types of cancers such as chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), and belong to the class of targeted drugs. Unlike traditional chemotherapy agents, targeted drugs achieve cancer treatment by specifically interfering with the growth and division processes of cancer cells. The mechanism of action of imatinib mesylate involves inhibiting the activity of the BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase protein in leukemia cells, thereby blocking the signaling pathways responsible for cancer cell proliferation and survival, ultimately suppressing tumor growth. Due to its targeted nature, imatinib mesylate exhibits high selectivity, acting mainly on cancer cells while causing minimal effects on normal cells. This results in fewer side effects and better tolerability compared to conventional chemotherapy drugs. However, imatinib mesylate may still cause certain adverse reactions, such as nausea, vomiting, edema, and fatigue. These are generally mild and can often be managed by adjusting the dosage or through symptomatic treatment.

In summary, imatinib mesylate is a targeted drug that treats chronic myeloid leukemia and gastrointestinal stromal tumors by inhibiting the activity of BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase and disrupting the growth and division of cancer cells. It is important to note that imatinib mesylate should only be used under the guidance of a physician. If any discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended.