Special Diets

Before taking imatinib, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: bleeding problems, heart problems (such as heart failure), kidney disease, liver disease, removal of thyroid gland.

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or blur your vision. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

Imatinib can make you more likely to get infections or may make current infections worse. Stay away from anyone who has an infection that may easily spread (such as chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, flu). Talk to your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or for more details.

Tell your health care professional that you are using imatinib before having any immunizations/vaccinations. Avoid contact with people who have recently received live vaccines (such as flu vaccine inhaled through the nose).

To lower the chance of getting cut, bruised, or injured, use caution with sharp objects like razors and nail cutters, and avoid activities such as contact sports.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

This medication may slow down a child's growth. The effect on final adult height is unknown. See the doctor regularly so your child's height and weight can be checked.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially swelling (edema).

Since this drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs and may harm an unborn baby, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication or breathe the dust from the tablets.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. You should not become pregnant while using imatinib. Imatinib may harm an unborn baby. Your doctor should order a pregnancy test 1 week before you start this medication. Ask about reliable forms of birth control while using this medication and for 2 weeks after the last dose. If you become pregnant, talk to your doctor right away about the risks and benefits of this medication.

This medication passes into breast milk. Because of possible risk to the infant, breastfeeding is not recommended while using this medication and for 1 month after the last dose. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.