Imatinib (Glivec®)

Imatinib may be used to treat chronic myeloid leukaemia| (CML); a type of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia| (ALL) called Philadelphia chromosome positive| or Ph+ALL; people with gastro-intestinal stromal tumours| (GISTs); and people with a rare type of soft tissue cancer called dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans|. 

What is Imatinib? Back to top

Imatinib is a type of treatment called a tyrosine kinase inhibitor. It works by blocking (inhibiting) signals within the leukaemia or cancer cell that make them grow and divide. Blocking the signals makes the cells die.

How it is given Back to top

Imatinib is normally given once daily. It's available as 100mg and 400mg tablets. You should take the tablets with a meal and a large glass of water. Imatinib is usually taken for as long as patients are benefiting from it.

Possible side effects Back to top

Each person’s reaction to cancer treatment is different. Some people have very few side effects while others may experience more. The side effects described below won't affect everyone having this treatment. 

We have outlined the most common side effects but haven't included those that are rare and therefore unlikely to affect you. If you notice any effects that aren't listed below, discuss them with your doctor or specialist nurse.

The side effects of imatinib are generally mild or moderate. They often occur during the first month of treatment and may get better after this initial period. The most common side effects are listed below.

Feeling sick (nausea)

This is usually mild. The nausea| can be relieved with anti-sickness drugs, which your doctor can prescribe. It can also be reduced by taking the tablet after food.

Diarrhoea

This can usually be easily controlled with medicine but tell your doctor if it's severe or continues. It is important to drink plenty of fluids if you have diarrhoea|.

Headaches

Some people have headaches when taking imatinib. Let your doctor know if you get any headaches as they can give you painkillers to help.

Leg aches/cramps

These can often be eased by taking mild painkillers, which your doctor can prescribe.

Fluid retention

This is fairly common and is not harmful, although it can be upsetting. Many people gain weight or notice swelling around the eyes and ankles because of the retention of fluid. Diuretics (drugs that make you pass more urine) can help get rid of some of the fluid, but often it settles of its own accord. Let your doctor know if you put on a lot of weight very quickly.

Visual disturbances

Imatinib can cause pain in the eyes and deterioration of vision. It may also cause more tears to be produced, which can lead to watery eyes.

Itchy rash

If your skin becomes dry, this may be relieved with antihistamine tablets and skin lotion.

Lowered resistance to infection (neutropenia)

Imatinib can temporarily reduce the number of white blood cells produced by the bone marrow|, making you more prone to infection|.

Contact your doctor or the hospital straight away if:

• your temperature goes above 38ºC (100.4ºF)
• you suddenly feel unwell, even if your temperature is normal.

Occasionally it may be necessary to delay your treatment if the number of blood cells (blood count) is still low.

Bruising or bleeding

Imatinib can temporarily reduce the production of platelets, which help the blood clot. Tell your doctor if you have any unexplained bruising or bleeding, such as nosebleeds, bleeding gums, blood spots or rashes on the skin.

Anaemia (low number of red blood cells)

You may become anaemic while having treatment with imatinib. This may make you feel tired| and breathless|. You may need to have a blood transfusion| if the number of red blood cells becomes too low.

Loss of appetite

A dietitian or specialist nurse at your hospital can give advice and tips on boosting appetite|, coping with eating difficulties| and maintaining weight.

Additional information Back to top

Other medicines

Some medicines can be harmful to take when you're having imatinib. Always tell your doctor about any other medicine you're taking, including those bought over the counter and herbal medicines|.

Contraception

Little is known about the effects of imatinib on a developing baby. Therefore, it is not advisable to become pregnant or father a child while taking this drug.

Things to remember about imatinib tablets Back to top

• It is important to take your tablets at the right times, as directed by your doctor.
• Keep the tablets in a safe place, out of the reach of children.
• If your doctor decides to stop the treatment, return any tablets you have to the pharmacist. Don't flush them down the toilet or throw them away.
• If you forget to take a tablet, don't take a double dose. Tell your doctor and keep to your regular dose schedule.

References Back to top

This section has been compiled using information from a number of reliable sources including:

• British National Formulary. 60th edition. 2010. British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain.
• electronic Medicines Compendium (eMC). Imatinib. (accessed 20 September 2010).