Used primarily in the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), it works by inhibiting specific tyrosine kinases that drive uncontrolled cell growth. It targets the BCR-ABL fusion protein in CML, effectively halting the proliferation of cancerous white blood cells. In GIST, it blocks the c-KIT and PDGFRα kinases, which are often mutated and overactive in these tumors. Due to its targeted mechanism, it offers higher efficacy and fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy. It is taken orally and has significantly improved long-term survival in CML patients. Also investigated for use in other cancers involving similar kinase pathways.