Gleevec and Diarrhea: What Users Say

• ter...
• September 7, 2008

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."

• OK...
• January 9, 2013

For Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia "I was diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) in June of 2010. I have been on Gleevec for about a year and a half now, as Tasigna did not work for me. I have had various side effects like others (i.e., swelling in the face, diarrhea, body sores, and muscle aches). Thank heaven I did not lose my hair. The worst is the sores in my mouth that I cannot get rid of, and the doctors do not find anything to give me any relief! If I had to pay for the medicines myself, I could not do it, but with my wonderful insurance, I am able to take the medicines and live a good life. Otherwise, I do not know where I would be without it. I just got married in August 2012 to my soul mate, and this medication gave me a new lease on life!"

• Dea...
• April 8, 2011

For Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia "After being diagnosed with CML about 4 years ago, I began taking Gleevec 400 daily. The first couple of months were the most difficult. I personally was nauseous and had diarrhea. Things seemed to settle down. I now have swelling in the face, especially in the eye area, which in turn creates migraines that are now controlled by medicines. I also still have the occasional diarrhea bouts. I am thankful for Gleevec, as my BCR able has been less than 01%, pretty much full remission."

• Twi...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• October 13, 2020

For Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor "I had a large gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) removed from the stomach in 9/2015. I was put on 400 mg Gleevec but had to stop early on due to a low white count; was tested weekly and restarted with no issues in the white count. A CT scan in 2019 was clean. Side effects are diarrhea, runny nose, vomiting (early on but no longer), weight gain, and now vision changes. I'm currently seeking an oncology doctor as my neurologist is setting up an MRI to rule out optic nerve issues. He believes Gleevec may be the cause. I've been on it for 5 years now at 400 mg per day. Happy to be alive!"

• Ste...
• March 5, 2015

For Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor "Apart from sluggishness and diarrhea, this has kept me alive for 10 years."