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.

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.