Imatinib (Systemic)

Brand Names : Gleevec

Side Effects of This Medicine

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Black, tarry stools; bleeding problems; bloating or swelling of face, hands, lower legs, and/or feet; chest pain; chills; cough; decreased urination; fever; painful or difficult urination; pale skin; rapid weight gain; shortness of breath; sore throat; sores, ulcers, or white spots on lips or in mouth; swollen glands; trouble breathing, exertional; unusual bleeding or bruising; unusual tiredness or weakness

Less common

Body aches or pain; convulsions (seizures); dry mouth; ear congestion; general feeling of discomfort or illness; headache sudden and severe; increased thirst; irregular heartbeat; loss of appetite; loss of voice; mood changes; muscle pain or cramps; nausea and vomiting; numbness or tingling in hands, feet, or lips; runny nose; shivering; small red or purple spots on skin; sneezing; stuffy nose; sweating; tightness in chest; wheezing

Rare

Bloody stools; blurred vision; inability to speak; slurred speech; temporary blindness; vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds; weakness in arm and/or leg on one side of the body, sudden and severe

Other side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. However, check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome.

More common

Bone pain; increased bowel movements; joint pain; loose stools; skin rash; stomach pain

Less common

Acid indigestion; back pain; bad unusual or unpleasant (after)taste; bloated full feeling; bloody nose; change in taste; difficulty having a bowel movement (stool); dizziness; excess air or gas in stomach or intestines; headache; itching skin; lack or loss of strength; large, flat, blue or purplish patches in the skin; loss of appetite; night sweats; passing gas; sleeplessness; trouble sleeping; unable to sleep; upset stomach; watering of eyes; weight loss

Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor.