Brand Names: Gleevec

Generic Name: imatinib (oral) (Pronunciation: im MA ta nib)

• What is imatinib (Gleevec)?
• What are the possible side effects of imatinib (Gleevec)?
• What is the most important information I should know about imatinib (Gleevec)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking imatinib (Gleevec)?
• How should I take imatinib (Gleevec)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Gleevec)?
• What happens if I overdose (Gleevec)?
• What should I avoid while taking imatinib (Gleevec)?
• What other drugs will affect imatinib (Gleevec)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is imatinib (Gleevec)?

Imatinib interferes with the growth of some cancer cells.

Imatinib is used to treat a type of blood cancer called Philadelphia chromosome positive chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). It is also used to treat certain tumors of the stomach and digestive system.

Imatinib may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Gleevec 100 mg

round, orange, imprinted with NVR, SA

Gleevec 400 mg

oval, orange, imprinted with 400, SL SL

What are the possible side effects of imatinib (Gleevec)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• fever, sore throat, and headache with a severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash;
• nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
• fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;
• black, bloody, or tarry stools;
• coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds;
• pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness;
• feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion;
• swelling, rapid weight gain;
• urinating more or less than usual, or not at all; or
• sudden, severe headache or pain behind the eyes.

Less serious side effects may include:

• mild nausea, diarrhea, upset stomach, gas;
• muscle or joint pain;
• skin rash;
• headache, dizziness;
• stuffy nose, cough, sore throat;
• depression, sleep problems (insomnia); or
• tired feeling.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about imatinib (Gleevec)?

Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are pregnant. It could cause harm to the unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have liver disease, kidney disease, congestive heart failure, a history of stomach ulcer or bleeding, or if you are receiving chemotherapy.

Take this medicine with a large glass of water.

Imatinib should be taken with a meal. Do not take the medicine on an empty stomach.

If you miss a dose, take the medicine as soon as you remember, making sure you also eat a meal and drink a large glass of water. If it is almost time for your next meal, skip the missed dose and take the medicine when you eat your next meal. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.