Gleevec (imatinib) drug information, dosage, side effects, drug interactions, and warnings. Gleevec, generic drug name imatinib, is a cancer drug used to treat leukemia and some types of stomach tumors.
New research indicates that Gleevec may be a promising treatment for rheumatoid arthritis patients who do not respond to other treatment options. Researchers at Standford University became interested when they learned that rheumatoid arthritis symptoms improved when rheumatoid arthritis patients were treated with Gleevec for their cancer.
Gleevec May Hold Promise for Rheumatoid Arthritis
New research indicates that Gleevec may be a promising treatment for rheumatoid arthritis patients who do not respond to other treatment options. Researchers at Standford University became interested when they learned that rheumatoid arthritis symptoms improved when rheumatoid arthritis patients were treated with Gleevec for their cancer.
Using collagen-induced arthritis in mice, serving as a model of rheumatoid arthritis, researchers found that Gleevec halted disease progression, reduced levels of bone destruction and inflammation, as well as tumor-like growth around the lining of the joints. Researchers went a step further and tested Gleevec on cells removed from human joints. Gleevec shut down production of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, a major player in the inflammatory process associated with rheumatoid arthritis. It was concluded that clinical trials of Gleevec for rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, psoriasis and other autoimmune conditions is needed.
Related Resources:
- Guide to Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis Screening Quiz
- Fast Facts About Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Test Your Knowledge: Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: 10 Things You Should Know
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