What are the side effects of GLIVEC?
Most people will have some side effects from GLIVEC, but many are mild to moderate. Common side effects may include headache, gastrointestinal disturbances (eg, stomach upset, diarrhea), muscle pain, skin reactions (eg, rash), fatigue, and weight increase.9 GLIVEC may also cause retention of fluid, called edema. This is often some swelling in the face (around the eyes) or in the ankles. Less commonly, the drug may cause more severe problems, with fluid building up in the lungs and in the abdominal cavity. It may also cause blood disorders, infections, and lung and heart problems in some people.1,9 Some side effects may be relieved with supportive care (eg, allergy medications, taking the medication with food), whereas other more serious ones may require dose adjustment or discontinuation of the drug. Talk to your doctor if you are feeling unwell or have any symptoms.
