2. What you need to know before you take
Imatinib will only be prescribed to you by a doctor with experience in medicines to treat blood cancers.
Follow all your doctor’s instructions carefully, even if they differ from the general information contained in this leaflet.
Do not take <Imatinib>
if you are allergic to imatinib or any of the other ingredients of this
medicine (listed in section 6).
If this applies to you, tell your doctor without taking imatinib.
If you think you may be allergic but are not sure, ask your doctor for advice.
Warnings and precautions
Talk to your doctor before taking imatinib:
- if you have or have ever had a liver, kidney or heart problem.
- if you are taking the medicine levothyroxine because your thyroid has
been removed.
If any of these apply to you, tell your doctor before taking imatinib.
During treatment with imatinib, tell your doctor straight away if you put on weight very quickly. Imatinib may cause your body to retain water (severe fluid retention)(see section 4).
While you are taking imatinib, your doctor will regularly check whether the medicine is working. You will also have blood tests and be weighed regularly.
Children and adolescents
Imatinib is also a treatment for children with CML. There is no experience in children with CML below 2 years of age.
Some children and adolescents taking imatinib may have slower than normal growth. The doctor will monitor the growth at regular visits.
issue date: 01-03-13 | version: M1.3.1_03.IAB.mes.tab.001.07.core approved: HEGE |
Common Technical Document Imatinib (as mesylate) film-coated tablets
Module 1 - Section 3.1 Core SmPC, | |
Labelling and Package Leaflet | page 3/9 |
Other medicines and <Imatinib>
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a prescription (such as paracetamol) and including herbal medicines (such as St. John’s Wort). Some medicines can interfere with the effect of imatinib when taken together. They may increase or decrease the effect of imatinib, either leading to increased side effects or making imatinib less effective. Imatinib may do the same to some other medicines.
Pregnancy, breast-feeding and fertility
If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor for advice before taking this medicine.
Imatinib is not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly necessary as it may harm your baby. Your doctor will discuss with you the possible risks of taking imatinib during pregnancy.
Women who might become pregnant are advised to use effective contraception during treatment.
Do not breast-feed during the treatment with imatinib.
Patients who are concerned about their fertility while taking imatinib are advised to consult with their doctor.
Driving and using machines
You may feel dizzy or drowsy or get blurred vision while taking this medicine. If this happens, do not drive or use any tools or machines until you are feeling well again.
issue date: 01-03-13 | version: M1.3.1_03.IAB.mes.tab.001.07.core approved: HEGE |
Common Technical Document Imatinib (as mesylate) film-coated tablets
Module 1 - Section 3.1 Core SmPC, | |
Labelling and Package Leaflet | page 4/9 |