Imatinib and Bloating: What Users Say

• Gis...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• May 14, 2013

Imatinib for Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor "I am taking Gleevec after surgery to remove a 15 cm tumor. It has been 7 months, and I am tumor-free. The main side effects of taking Gleevec have been abdominal bloating with pain, at times severe. I am able to handle the side effects for the most part, but when it becomes too much, I just reduce my dose for a few days until I feel better, normally for two days a week. I was on Gleevec for 5 months prior to surgery. It didn't reduce the tumor, but it stopped its growth and reduced the density considerably."

• ron...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• May 2, 2016

For Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia "Praise God for Gleevec/Imatinib. Discovered the CML in early 2005. Immediately went on Gleevec 800 mg daily. After a few months, I changed doctors, went to 600 mg, and many side effects began to ease up. Over the years, we've tried Sprycel and another drug, but side effects worsened, so we are back with Imatinib 600 mg. With the exception of diarrhea, bloating, and fluid retention, all is great. Am into my second month on the generic Imatinib, so we'll see. Again, just so thankful for meds which control the CML and the doctors who developed it."

• Cli...
• April 18, 2013

For Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia "I was diagnosed with PH CML during December 2009. I was put on Imatinib Mesylate 400 mg since 1.1.2010. With Imatinib, my counts are well within normal limits and so far, the PH Chromosome has remained negative to date. I have side effects like muscle cramps, headache, fluid retention, abdominal bloating, mild diarrhea, anxiety, sleeplessness, and mood swings. Incidence of headache has come down. Fluid retention is relieved with Lasilactone, and bone pain is relieved with Calcium and Vit D3. I take Wheat Grass juice and Beetroot Carrot Ginger juice and do certain yoga, especially for cancer."