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Imatinib

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
BCR-ABL Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Glivec® Cancer-related

Imatinib - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Imatinib cause?

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea or stomach discomfort
  • Mild to moderate headache
  • Rash
    Avoid prolonged sun exposure, cover up with clothing or use sunscreen.
  • Muscle cramps or pain, joint pain
  • Mild swelling due to fluid retention
  • Decreased red and white blood cells, platelets
  • Tiredness or lack or energy

Inform your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  • Fever of 38°C or higher
  • Unusual bleeding, bruising or black sticky stools
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath
  • Sudden weight gain or severe swelling around eyes or of feet due to fluid retention
  • Yellowing of eye whites or skin, dark tea-colored urine
  • Severe rashes

Before taking Imatinib , what precautions must I follow?

  • Use effective birth control during treatment and for 2 weeks after stopping Imatinib. Inform your doctor if you or your partner plan for or suspect pregnancy.
  • Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you:
    • Have any other medical conditions e.g. heart problems
    • Are taking any other medication (including over-the-counter ones), herbal products or supplements e.g. paracetamol, iron supplements.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Imatinib ?

  • Grapefruit and it juice
  • St John's Wort

Imatinib - Additional Information

  • Updated on 3/5/2019 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by Department of Pharmacy National Cancer Centre Singapore
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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