Gleevec is a prescription medication that is used to treat certain types of bone marrow disorders, leukemia, skin cancer, and stomach and digestive system tumors. Gleevec contains imatinib mesylate and works by interfering with the growth of cancer cells.

Make sure to always read the patient information and instructions before using this medication. Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Gleevec should be taken with a meal and a large glass of water. Do not take this medication on an empty stomach.
• Swallow Gleevec tablets whole. If you cannot swallow whole, dissolve the tablet in a glass of water or apple juice, stir and drink immediately. Use around 2oz of liquid for Gleevec 100mg and 7oz of liquid for Gleevec 400mg.
• You may need regular blood and liver function tests while taking this medication.
• Do not take broken tablets. If a broken tablet comes into contact with skin, wash with soap and water.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• About your drug and other allergies.
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
• Your medical history particularly of heart disease, congestive heart failure, diabetes, hepatitis B, liver disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, stomach ulcers or stomach bleeding, chemotherapy or underactive thyroid.
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You should also know:

• This medication must not be used during pregnancy. Use effective birth control while taking this medication and for at least 14 days after ending treatment. You may need a negative pregnancy test before starting this medication.
• Do not breast-feed while taking Gleevec and for at least a month after your treatment.
• Avoid the use of grapefruit and grapefruit products while taking this medication.
• This medication may weaken your immune system. Avoid people that are sick or have infections.
• Gleevec may affect your vision or reactions. Do not drive or operate machinery until you can do so safely.
• Gleevec may increase the risk of bleeding or injury. Avoid potentially dangerous activities and take more care while shaving and brushing teeth.
• Imatinib mesylate can pass into fluids. Caregivers should wear gloves while cleaning up body fluids, contaminated trash or soiled clothing and linens.

Common side effects of Gleevec include but are not limited to:

• Joint or muscle pain.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Stomach pain or diarrhea.
• Tiredness.
• Skin rash.

Get medical help if you have any of the following side effects of imatinib mesylate:

• Signs of fluid retention including swelling, rapid weight gain, or shortness of breath.
• Signs of a fluid build-up in the lungs including wheezing, gasping for breath, painful breathing, or coughing with foamy mucus.
• Signs of a kidney problem including little or no urination or swelling in the feet and ankles.
• Signs of a low blood cell count including fever, flu symptoms, unusual tiredness, cold hands and feet, lightheadedness, unusual bleeding, or mouth sores.
• Signs of tumor cell breakdown including fast or slow heart rate, nausea, vomiting, confusion, muscle cramps, weakness, decreased urination, or tinging in the hands or feet.
• Signs of a liver problem including dark urine, jaundice, loss of appetite, or upper stomach pain.
• Signs of stomach bleeding including coughing up blood, vomit that looks like coffee grounds or bloody or tarry stools.
• Signs of a thyroid problem including depression, slow heart rate, tiredness, weight gain, dry skin, hair loss, constipation, or feeling more sensitive to cold temperatures.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling in your face, lips, or throat.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Gleevec?

If you miss a dose of Gleevec, you should take it as soon as you remember with a meal and a glass of water. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip your missed dose.

What is the strength of Gleevec?

Gleevec and the generic alternative imatinib mesylate are both available in strengths of 100mg and 400mg.