Before taking Gleevec (imatinib), tell your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any allergies, medical conditions, and medications you are taking.
Grapefruit Interaction
Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking Gleevec unless your healthcare provider specifically tells you it is safe to do so.
Grapefruit can affect how your body processes imatinib, which may increase the risk of side effects. If you have questions about grapefruit or other foods that may interact with your medication, speak with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Drowsiness, Dizziness, and Blurred Vision
Gleevec may cause:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
Until you know how the medication affects you, avoid driving, operating machinery, or performing activities that require alertness and clear vision.
If these symptoms become severe or persistent, contact your healthcare provider.
Allergic Reactions
Tell your healthcare provider if you are allergic to imatinib, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in Gleevec.
Stop taking Gleevec and seek immediate medical attention if you develop signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as:
- Rash or hives
- Severe itching
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing
Breastfeeding
Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed.
Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Gleevec and for at least one month after your final dose, as the medication may pass into breast milk and could harm a nursing infant.
Your healthcare provider can discuss safe feeding options for your baby during treatment.
Other Medical Conditions
Before starting Gleevec, tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had:
- Heart disease
- Lung disease
- Thyroid disorders
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
Certain medical conditions may increase the risk of side effects or require additional monitoring during treatment.
Liver Problems
Gleevec can cause serious liver problems, including severe liver injury and, in rare cases, liver failure.
Your healthcare provider will typically check your liver function before treatment begins and may monitor it regularly during treatment, especially if you are also receiving chemotherapy or other medications that can affect the liver.
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you develop symptoms of liver problems, including:
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine
- Pain in the upper right side of the abdomen
- Severe nausea or vomiting
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
Regular blood tests are an important part of treatment and help your healthcare provider monitor for potential liver-related side effects.
Always attend scheduled follow-up appointments and laboratory testing while taking Gleevec.
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