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Imatinib Mesylate ( eye-MAT-eh-nib MEH-sill-ayt ) (GLEEVEC®) What is this medication used for? Imatinib mesylate destroys cancer cells by interfering with their growth cycle.
What does it look like? • Tablet or capsule How is it given? • By mouth (oral or po) What are the common side effects? • Low white blood cell counts (neutropenia) • Nausea and vomiting • Muscle aches • Swelling of the hands, feet, or ankles (peripheral edema) • Heartburn • Headache • Extreme tiredness (fatigue) even with plenty of rest
Special instructions: • Capsules should be taken with food and a large glass of water. • If capsules cannot be swallowed, the capsule may be opened and its contents mixed into 2 tablespoons of water in a medicine cup by someone wearing chemotherapy gloves. All of the liquid must be consumed followed by a glass full of liquid to wash the medication down. • Call your healthcare provider if more than one dose is missed or vomited. Never double the dose. • Store the tablets at room temperature. • Consult your healthcare provider before becoming pregnant, fathering a child, or breastfeeding. It may be important to use birth control while taking this medicine and for several months after treatment is completed. • In utero exposure may cause fetal harm.
What are the less common side effects? • Stomach (abdominal) pain and cramping • Changes to liver function tests • Itchy red rash • Changes in skin color (usually lighter patches) • Fever • Diarrhea • Kidney problems • Bleeding
• Swelling of the brain • Difficulty swallowing • Blood in the vomit
Notes from Your Healthcare Team
Not all of the possible side effects of this medicine and precautions related to taking it are covered in this information sheet. For a complete list of side effects and precautions, ask your healthcare professional (doctor, nurse, pharmacist) for a manufacturer’s package insert or another reference.
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