Imatinib and Diarrhea: What Users Say

• ter...
• September 7, 2008

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."

• OK...
• January 9, 2013

Imatinib 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

Imatinib 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

Imatinib 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!"

• 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."

• Ken...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• December 12, 2022

For Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia "Started on Gleevec in May 2004. Had body aches, swelling around the eyes and ankles, and diarrhea. My body adjusted after a few months, the aches went away, and after a year or two, the diarrhea finally ended. I started on 800 mg/day, then 600, and after a couple of years, 400 mg per day. For those with tough side effects - I am sorry. Hopefully, one of the newer drugs may help. As for the cost: for the last several years, I paid $10/mo copay. With the pharmacy benefit management companies, the price started going up. I just switched to an online pharmacy that advertises a cost-plus program. It doesn't accept most insurance but is much cheaper than my copay. Hope that can help."

• Ste...
• March 5, 2015

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