HOME
A-Z

Imatinib

Imatinib is a drug used for treatment of Gastro-Intestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST) and Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML).

What is this medication used for

Imatinib is a drug used for treatment of Gastro-Intestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST) and Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML).

Dosage and How to Use

It is a capsule that you take by mouth. It should be taken with a meal and a large glass of water (250ml). Avoid grapefruit and/or its juice, and St John’s Wort.

Missed a Dose

If you miss a dose of Imatinib, take it as soon as you can if it is within 12 hours of the missed dose. If it is over 12 hours since your missed dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your usual dosing. Do not double the dose.

Side Effects, Precautions, Contraindication

What are the side effects of Imatinib?

Imatinib is usually well tolerated and serious side effects are rare.

Nausea or vomiting may occur when you first start taking Imatinib

Mild diarrhea may occur

Mild to moderate joint or muscle pain

Mild to moderate headache may occur

You may feel lethargic or giddy

Try to avoid heavy-duty work or long outings on such days

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

Fever of 38°C or higher

Unusual bleeding, bruising or black dark stools

Skin rashes

Swelling around the eyelids or other parts of the body

Persistent or severe diarrhea unresponsive to medication

Do not take any medication without informing your doctor, including over-the-counter medications like paracetamol

If you are taking iron supplements

Handling and Storage

Store Imatinib tablets out of the reach of children, at room temperature, away from heat, light and moisture.

Additional Information

Other name: Glivec^®

If you have any questions, please call your pharmacist at the National Cancer Centre. The side effects listed above are those that occur frequently. Other side effects may occur. Please contact your doctor to report.

Disclaimer: The National Cancer Centre Singapore does not endorse or promote the use of any product mentioned in this booklet. The information is presented in a summary to provide an understanding and for knowledge only, and may not contain information about all aspects of care. It does not recommend self-management of health problems or replace consultation with your doctor. You should never disregard medical advice or delay seeking treatment because of something you have read in this booklet.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission from the publisher.

Document No. PHM-MED-PEM-099/0916