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Imatinib Coupon - Imatinib 400mg tablet

imatinib

Generic Gleevec
Used for Leukemia, Soft Tissue Sarcoma, Myelodysplastic Syndromes, Mastocytosis, GIST
Used for Leukemia, Soft Tissue Sarcoma, Myelodysplastic Syndromes, Mastocytosis, GIST

Imatinib (Gleevec) is an oral medication used to treat different types of cancer and blood conditions in adults. It can also be used in children with certain leukemias. This medication can cause swelling, muscle or joint pain, and stomach upset.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Hope Chang, PharmD, AAHIVP
reviewer
Michelle Nguyen, PharmD
Last reviewed on March 24, 2022
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostAlternativesLatest newsImagesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Imatinib (Gleevec)?

What is Imatinib (Gleevec) used for?

Certain blood cell cancers and conditions

  • Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia (Ph+ CML)

  • Ph+ acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL)

  • Myelodysplastic or myeloproliferative diseases (MDS/MPD)

  • Aggressive systemic mastocytosis (ASM)

  • Hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) or chronic eosinophilic leukemia (CEL)

Certain skin cancer

  • Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP)

Certain tumors in the digestive tract - Gleevec brand only

  • Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST)

How Imatinib (Gleevec) works

Imatinib (Gleevec) is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). It blocks a certain protein in your body called tyrosine kinase. This helps stop cancer cells from growing and multiplying.

Are you looking for information on Imbruvica (ibrutinib) instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsGleevec
Drug ClassTyrosine kinase inhibitor
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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What are the side effects of Imatinib (Gleevec)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Fluid retention or swelling (62%)
  • Nausea (50%)
  • Muscle cramps (49%)
  • Bone, muscle, or joint pain (up to 47%)
  • Diarrhea (45%)
  • Rash or other skin reaction (40%)
  • Fatigue or tiredness (39%)
  • Headache (37%)
  • Stomach pain (37%)
  • Common cold (31%)
  • Bleeding (29%)
  • Vomiting (23%)

Other Side Effects

  • Dizziness
  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Throat pain
  • Indigestion
  • Weight gain
  • Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
  • Depressed mood

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Infections: fever, chills
  • Heart failure: shortness of breath, dry cough, irregular heartbeats, chest pain, weight gain
  • Liver damage: yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, tiredness
  • Stomach bleed: blood in vomit, black or tarry stools, bright red blood mixed with stools
  • Serious skin reactions: rash, hives, peeling skin, blisters

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Abdominal or stomach pain, cramping, burning, or tenderness

bleeding from wound after surgery

bleeding gums

bleeding problems

bloating or swelling of the face, hands, lower legs, or feet

blood in the urine

bloody eye

bloody nose

blue lips and fingernails

blurred vision

body aches or pain

chest pain or discomfort

chills

clay-colored stools

cough

coughing that sometimes produces a pink frothy sputum

coughing up blood

decrease in the amount of urine

decreased appetite

decreased urination

diarrhea

difficult or labored breathing

difficulty with swallowing

dizziness

dry mouth

ear congestion

fever

general feeling of discomfort or illness

headache

inability to speak

increased menstrual flow or vaginal bleeding

increased thirst

irregular heartbeat

itching or skin rash

joint pain

large, flat, blue, or purplish patches on the skin

loss of appetite

loss of voice

mood changes

muscle aches and pain

muscle cramps

nausea and vomiting

noisy, rattling breathing

nosebleed

numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips

pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones

painful or difficult urination

pale skin

prolonged bleeding from cuts

rapid weight gain

red, black, bloody, or tarry stools

red or dark brown urine

redness of the eye

seizures

shivering

slurred speech

small red or purple spots on the skin

sneezing

sore throat

sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth

stuffy or runny nose

sweating

swelling in the legs and ankles

swollen glands

temporary blindness

tightness in the chest

trouble sleeping

troubled breathing at rest

troubled breathing when moving or walking

unusual bleeding or bruising

unusual tiredness or weakness

vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds

weakness in the arm or leg on one side of the body, sudden and severe

yellow eyes or skin

Incidence not known

Anxiety

blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin

change in vision not present before treatment

chest pain, possibly moving to the left arm, neck, or shoulder

confusion

delayed or slow growth in children

irregular, fast or slow, or shallow breathing

nausea, heartburn, or indigestion, severe and continuing

pain in the bones

red, irritated eyes

red skin lesions, often with a purple center

seeing floaters, veil, or curtain appearing across part of vision

severe abdominal or stomach pain, cramping, or burning

severe constipation

severe vomiting

tenderness, pain, swelling, warmth, skin discoloration, and prominent superficial veins over affected area

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Acid or sour stomach

belching

difficulty having a bowel movement (stool)

difficulty with moving

discouragement

excess air or gas in the stomach or intestines

fear or nervousness

feeling sad or empty

feeling unusually cold

full or bloated feeling

increased bowel movements

irritability

lack or loss of strength

loose stools

loss of interest or pleasure

muscle stiffness

night sweats

passing gas

stomach discomfort, upset, or pain

swollen joints

trouble concentrating

weight loss

Less common

Back pain

bad, unusual, or unpleasant (after) taste

change in taste

watering of the eyes

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Imatinib (Gleevec)

thumbs-up

Pros

One of the first-choice treatment options for low-risk CML

Can be dissolved in water or apple juice for people who have trouble swallowing pills

Might be a good option for people who are older or who have more serious health issues, since it's not as strong as other medications in the same class

Can be used in people with kidney and liver problems, with possible dose adjustments

Available as a generic, which can be lower-cost

thumbs-down

Cons

Can cause low blood cell counts

Requires regular blood tests so your provider can monitor for side effects

Can stunt growth in children

Not safe during pregnancy, since it can harm an unborn baby

Interacts with a lot of medications and dose might need to be adjusted

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Imatinib (Gleevec)

pharmacist

  • Take imatinib (Gleevec) with a meal and a large glass of water. This can help lower any stomach upset you might experience with the medication.

    • If you have a hard time swallowing pills, you can dissolve the tablets in apple juice or water. Mix it well with a spoon, and then drink the mixture right away.

      • Don't crush the tablets. If you find crushed or broken tablets, use gloves and avoid touching them with your bare hands. If you do end up touching crushed tablets, wash your hands right away. Exposure to the powder form of the medication can be harmful.

        • If you're taking 400 mg or 600 mg a day, your dose can be taken all at once. If you're prescribed 800 mg or more a day, take the 400 mg tablet at separate times of the day to get to your total daily dose. Since the tablet coating contains iron, separating this daily dose throughout the day prevents too much iron from being absorbed into your body at once.

          • You might experience dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision when you take imatinib (Gleevec). Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you.

            • Give all your providers a full, up-to-date list of the medications you're taking, and talk to your oncologist before starting any new medications or supplements. Since imatinib (Gleevec) can interact with a lot of medications, they'll need to make sure all your medications are safe for you to take. The dose of your medications, including imatinib (Gleevec), might need to be adjusted.

              • Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking imatinib (Gleevec). It can raise the levels of the medication in your body.

                • If you're female of childbearing age, use effective birth control while you take imatinib (Gleevec) and for 14 days after you stop the medication. This medication can harm your unborn baby if taken during pregnancy. Let your provider know right away if you become pregnant while taking this medication.

                  faqs

                  Frequently asked questions about Imatinib (Gleevec)

                  How long can you take imatinib (Gleevec)?
                  Imatinib (Gleevec) can be taken for many years. Continue to take this medication until your provider tells you to stop. Most people will continue to take imatinib (Gleevec) until the side effects become too severe or their condition worsens.
                  How well does imatinib (Gleevec) work for CML?
                  In clinical studies, after 7 years of treatment, people with newly diagnosed CML responded well to imatinib (Gleevec). Up to 97% had blood cell counts that returned to normal, and up to 85% had fewer cancer cells.
                  What should you do if you miss a dose of imatinib (Gleevec)?
                  If you've forgotten to take imatinib (Gleevec), skip your missed dose. Take your next dose at your next regularly scheduled time. Don't take 2 doses at the same time.
                  What happens when you stop taking imatinib (Gleevec)?
                  Since imatinib (Gleevec) kills cancer cells and stops their growth, it's likely that your cancer cells will start to grow and multiply if you stop taking the medication. Because of this, make sure to continue to take imatinib (Gleevec) every day as instructed by your provider. In the event of low blood cell counts or serious side effects, your provider might instruct you to pause the medication. This will allow your body to make more cells and recover from other side effects. Your provider will monitor you closely during this time.
                  Does imatinib (Gleevec) cause hair loss?
                  In clinical studies, around 10% of people had hair loss while taking imatinib (Gleevec). If you experience hair loss or are concerned about it during treatment, ask your provider about ways to manage and cope with hair loss.
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                  What are the risks and warnings for Imatinib (Gleevec)?

                  Imatinib (Gleevec) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                  risk-warning

                  Water retention and swelling

                  Imatinib (Gleevec) can cause your body to hold onto water (water retention), which can lead to swelling. Sometimes, this can be serious. Your provider will monitor you closely for this and might prescribe medications to help you remove fluid from your body. Let your care team know if you notice swelling of your hands, feet, ankles, or belly, trouble breathing, unexpected weight changes, or fast weight gain over a few days or weeks.

                  risk-warning

                  Low blood cell counts

                  • Risk factors: CML in accelerated phase | CML in blast crisis

                    Imatinib (Gleevec) can lower your blood cell counts, including your red blood cells (important for carrying oxygen throughout your body), white blood cells (important for your immune system to fight off infection), and platelets (important for blood clotting). This can lead to feeling tired, getting sick more easily or more often, and bleeding or bruising more easily.

                    Low blood cell counts generally happen during the first couple months of taking imatinib (Gleevec). Because of this, your provider will closely monitor your blood cell counts through blood tests every week in the beginning and then at regular intervals as you continue to take the medication.

                    risk-warning

                    Heart failure and other heart problems

                    • Risk factors: Older adults | History of heart problems | History of kidney failure

                      Heart failure and other heart problems have occurred in some people taking imatinib (Gleevec). It's more common in older adults and people who have or have had certain conditions. Make sure your provider has your full medical history, so they can closely monitor your heart health. Let your care team know if you experience any signs and symptoms of heart failure, including shortness of breath, dry cough, irregular heartbeats, chest pain, and weight gain.

                      risk-warning

                      Liver damage

                      Rarely, liver damage has happened in some people taking imatinib (Gleevec). Your provider will monitor your liver health through blood tests before you start the medication and regularly during treatment. They might stop the medication or lower your dose if they think you have liver damage. Let your providers know if you notice any signs and symptoms of liver damage, including yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, tiredness, bleeding, and bruising.

                      risk-warning

                      Bleeding

                      • Risk factors: Tumors in stomach or intestines (GIST)

                        Imatinib (Gleevec) can cause bleeding, which can be very serious if it happens in your gut. Serious stomach bleeds are more common in people who have tumors in the digestive tract. Seek medical help right away if you notice blood in your vomit or stool. The blood can appear bright red or dark and tarry.

                        risk-warning

                        Harm to unborn baby

                        Imatinib (Gleevec) shouldn't be used during pregnancy, since it can harm your unborn baby. If you're female of childbearing age, use effective birth control while you take imatinib (Gleevec) and for 14 days after you stop the medication. Let your provider know right away if you become pregnant while taking this medication.

                        risk-warning

                        Slowed growth in children

                        Slowed growth has been reported in children and pre-adolescents taking imatinib (Gleevec). Your child's growth will be monitored closely by their provider. Discuss with your child's provider if you're concerned.

                        dosage

                        Imatinib (Gleevec) dosage forms

                        Typical dosing for Imatinib (Gleevec)

                        Adults

                        • Most conditions: The typical starting dose is 400 mg or 600 mg by mouth once daily.

                        • DFSP: The recommended dose is 400 mg by mouth twice daily.

                        Children

                        • CML or ALL only: The typical starting dose will be based on your child's height and weight. Your child's cancer specialist (oncologist) will calculate the right dose for your child. The daily dose is taken by mouth, either as a single dose or as 2 equally separated doses during the day. The maximum dose is 600 mg per day.

                        interactions

                        Interactions between Imatinib (Gleevec) and other drugs

                        Imatinib (Gleevec) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Imatinib (Gleevec). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                        Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                        • Eliglustat
                        • Flibanserin
                        • Lomitapide
                        • Measles Virus Vaccine, Live
                        • Mumps Virus Vaccine, Live
                        • Rotavirus Vaccine, Live
                        • Rubella Virus Vaccine, Live
                        • Varicella Virus Vaccine, Live
                        • Zoster Vaccine, Live

                        Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                        Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

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                        How much does Imatinib (Gleevec) cost?

                        To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
                        Gleevec (brand)
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                        alternatives

                        What are alternatives to Imatinib (Gleevec)?

                        There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Imatinib (Gleevec). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                        Imatinib (Gleevec)
                        Used for:

                        Certain blood cell cancers and conditions

                        • Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia (Ph+ CML)

                        • Ph+ acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL)

                        • Myelodysplastic or myeloproliferative diseases (MDS/MPD)

                        • Aggressive systemic mastocytosis (ASM)

                        • Hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) or chronic eosinophilic leukemia (CEL)

                        Certain skin cancer

                        • Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP)

                        Certain tumors in the digestive tract - Gleevec brand only

                        • Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST)

                        $44.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                        Bosulif (bosutinib)
                        Used for:

                        • Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myelogenous leukemia (Ph+ CML)

                        View Prices
                        images

                        Imatinib (Gleevec) images

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