What is Gleevec?

Gleevec (imatinib) interferes with the growth of some cancer cells. Gleevec is used to treat certain types of leukemia (blood cancer), bone marrow disorders, and skin cancer. Gleevec is also used to treat certain tumors of the stomach and digestive system.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Take this medication by mouth with a meal and a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily. Do not crush the tablets. If you have trouble swallowing the tablets whole, you may dissolve the tablets in a glass of water or apple juice. The amount of liquid will depend on your dose. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more detailed instructions. Stir the mixture well until the tablet(s) dissolve, and drink right away.
• The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). For children, the dosage is also based on their body size.
• Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using this medication unless your doctor or pharmacist says you may do so safely. Grapefruit can increase the chance of side effects with this medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
• Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.
• Since this drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs and may harm an unborn baby, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication or breathe the dust from the tablets.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history, especially of: bleeding problems, heart problems (such as heart failure), kidney disease, liver disease, removal of thyroid gland.

Also be aware that:

• This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or blur your vision. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
• Imatinib can make you more likely to get infections or may worsen any current infections. Avoid contact with people who have infections that may spread to others (such as chickenpox, measles, flu). Consult your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or for more details.
• Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without the consent of your doctor. Avoid contact with people who have recently received live vaccines (such as flu vaccine inhaled through the nose).
• To lower the chance of getting cut, bruised, or injured, use caution with sharp objects like razors and nail cutters, and avoid activities such as contact sports.
• Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
• This medication may slow down a child's growth. The effect on final adult height is unknown. See the doctor regularly so your child's height and weight can be checked.
• Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially swelling (edema).
• Since this drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs and may harm an unborn baby, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication or breathe the dust from the tablets.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. You should not become pregnant while you are taking imatinib. Imatinib may harm an unborn baby. Consult your doctor for more details and to discuss the use of reliable forms of birth control while taking this medication and for 2 weeks after stopping treatment. If you become pregnant while taking imatinib, talk to your doctor right away about the risks and benefits of this medication.
• This medication passes into breast milk. Because of possible risk to the infant, breast-feeding is not recommended during treatment and for 1 month after your last dose. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Common side-effects may include but are not limited to:

• Upset stomach, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, headache, muscle/joint pain, muscle cramps, dizziness, blurred vision, or drowsiness.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following side-effects:

• Any serious side effects, including: easy bruising/bleeding, unusual tiredness, sudden/unexplained weight gain, swelling hands/ankles/feet/abdomen, swelling around the eyes, shortness of breath, fast heartbeat, black/bloody stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, symptoms of liver disease (such as nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine).
• Any signs of infection (such as sore throat that doesn't go away, fever, chills).
• Low back/side pain (flank pain), signs of kidney problems (such as painful urination, pink/bloody urine, change in the amount of urine), muscle spasms/weakness.
• Any rash.
• Any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

Q: What happens if I miss a dose?

A: Take your dose as soon as you can, making sure you also eat a meal and drink a large glass of water. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

Q: What should I avoid while taking Gleevec?

A: Gleevec may cause blurred vision and may impair your reactions. Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Dizziness or severe drowsiness can cause falls, accidents, or severe injuries. Grapefruit may interact with imatinib and lead to unwanted side effects. Avoid the use of grapefruit products. Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Tell your doctor at once if you develop signs of infection. Avoid activities that may increase your risk of bleeding or injury. Use extra care to prevent bleeding while shaving or brushing your teeth. This medicine can pass into body fluids (urine, feces, vomit). Caregivers should wear rubber gloves while cleaning up a patient's body fluids, handling contaminated trash or laundry or changing diapers. Wash hands before and after removing gloves. Wash soiled clothing and linens separately from other laundry.