Is there a generic for Gleevec?
Key Points
- Yes, there is a generic version of Gleevec known as imatinib mesylate. Imatinib comes in a 100-mg and 400-mg oral tablet.
- Generic imatinib was approved in the U.S. in Dec. 2015 and was first manufactured by Sun Pharmaceuticals. Today, there are multiple manufacturers that produce the generic version of Gleevec.
- Imatinib is a prescription medicine used to treat various leukemias (blood cancers) and other related diseases.
How much does imatinib cost?
The cash price for a 30-day supply of 400 mg tablets using a freely available online coupon is around $102.00. Imatinib is also available as a 100 mg tablet that costs $218.59 for 30 tablets. Prices for imatinib will vary based on where you live and which pharmacy you visit. Coupon prices are for those paying cash and are not valid with insurance plans.
This imatinib price is based on using the Drugs.com discount card which is accepted at most U.S. pharmacies.
Check with your prescription insurance company to determine if imatinib is covered under your plan. Generic medications are usually preferred by insurance companies if they are available.
Novartis, the manufacturer of Gleevec, can offer cost assistance through copay coupons and patient assistance programs for the brand name drug, if you qualify. Eligibility requirements vary for each program. For more information contact Novartis at 877-577-7756.
Related questions
- What to avoid when taking Gleevec?
- Gleevec vs Sprycel vs Tasigna - how do they compare?
- How does Gleevec (imatinib) work?
What does imatinib treat?
Imatinib (Gleevec) is used to treat certain types of leukemia (blood cancer), bone marrow disorders, skin cancers and certain tumors of the stomach and digestive system, such as:
- chronic myeloid (myelogenous) leukemia
- acute lymphoblastic leukemia
- myelodysplastic / myeloproliferative diseases
- mastocytosis
- dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans
- gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST)
This is not all the information you need to know about imatinib (Gleevec) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of talking to your doctor about your treatment. Review the full imatinib (Gleevec) information here, and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.
References
- Drugs@FDA. Imatinib. US Food and Drug Administration. Accessed Feb. 21, 2021 at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/
- DailyMed. US National Library of Medicine. NIH. Accessed Feb. 21, 2021 at https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/search.cfm?labeltype=all&query=imatinib&audience=consumer
- Gleevec (imatinib). Patient information online. Accessed Feb. 21, 2021 at https://www.us.gleevec.com/
Read next
Can I take Gleevec while pregnant?
No, you should NOT take Gleevec (generic name: imatinib) if you are pregnant or could become pregnant. Taking Gleevec while you are pregnant could harm an unborn baby. You may need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this treatment. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using this medicine and for at least 14 days after your last dose. Use a birth control method that results in a less than 1% pregnancy rate. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for medical advice in relation to drug use while pregnant or breastfeeding. Continue reading
How much does Tecartus cost?
Tecartus costs $373,000 as a one time CAR-T immunotherapy cancer treatment. Most people do not pay for this medicine themselves. It is a personalized medicine engineered from a patient’s own white blood cells. Costs may be covered by your insurance plan, patient assistance programs, or financial resources offered through the manufacturer. Continue reading
How much does Blincyto (blinatumomab) cost?
The cost of a Blincyto (blinatumomab) vial is approximately $5,427 per 35 microgram (mcg) single-dose vial for injection. The overall cost for your therapy will also depend upon the length of treatment. Most people do not pay out-of-pocket for the full price of Blincyto. Continue reading
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