The following information is NOT intended to endorse drugs or recommend therapy. While these reviews might be helpful, they are not a substitute for the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgement of healthcare practitioners in patient care.
Gleevec (imatinib) for Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor: After having surgery to remove my gastrointestinal stromal tumor one year ago, and having a CT scan every 3 months, I am NED (no evidence of disease), due to taking Gleevec. I only have one noticeable side of effect, occasional nausea.
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Gleevec (imatinib) for Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia: I have been on Gleevec for about 5 1/2 years. It has completely controlled my CML; my oncologist says that there isn't any sign of cancer now. I have had complete remission. I had just about all side effects the first month I was on this medicine, but they all stopped. This is truly my miracle drug, a gift from GOD. I recently had my quarterly check up, and my doctor told me there had been follow up studies done, and the people that came off Gleevec, had the CML return, so I guess that means you're on it for life. The only downside is the cost, but thank God for my job and insurance, because it is covered. I guess other than that it is no different than taking insulin for life, except the cost.
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Gleevec (imatinib) for Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia: Gleevec got my CML under control in less than a year. Taking it after dinner was the best time for me. The cost is the biggest downside to this drug. It is not covered by my insurance; therefore, it is very expensive, but worth it.
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Gleevec (imatinib) for Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia: Gleevec has been a miracle drug for me, the side effects are minimal when you consider the outcome, if you don't take it. Thanks very much to the inventer of this medication.
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Gleevec (imatinib) for Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia: I am so thankful for Gleevec! I did have some side-effects but prior to Gleevec, taking interferon and hydroxyurea led to much more severe side effects. I had aching limbs, and I now have a skin reddening/rash--like rosacea on my cheeks and my upper arms are reddish--like a mild sunburn. I have tummy issues now--gurgling, diarrhea, cramping, etc., but they are easily managed with imodium. Gleevec has extended my survival and I had the honor of meeting Dr Druker who developed the drug, at Oregon Health and Science University. He was absolutely wonderful as was the care I received there.
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marywelzen said: 
