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Gleevec

Gleevec

Imatinib

Imatinib tablets for chronic myeloid leukaemia and stomach tumours. It disables the abnormal protein that fuels the growth of leukaemia cells.

All strengths and pack prices
StrengthPackPricePer unit
400mg10 tablets$147.00$14.70
400mg20 tablets$237.00$11.85
400mg30 tablets$334.00$11.13
400mg60 tablets$638.00$10.63
Active ingredient
Imatinib
Route
Oral use
Form
Tablet
Strengths
400mg

Gleevec is the reference name. You receive a generic with the same active ingredient and strength.

No prescription needed: we place your order for Gleevec on your behalf.

Alternative names
imatinib
Therapeutic class
Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor
Pharmacological class
Antineoplastic
Contraindications
severe hypersensitivity to imatinib
Minor side effects
nausea; vomiting; diarrhoea
Moderate side effects
fluid retention; muscle cramps; fatigue
Dosage forms
Tablet
Administration route
Oral use
Originator
Novartis
Onset time
1–2 weeks
Duration
24 hours
Storage instructions
Store below 25°C.
Drug interactions
Ketoconazole; Rifampin; Warfarin
Age restrictions
Approved for paediatric and adult populations.
Serious side effects

severe hepatotoxicity, requires immediate medical attention; severe bone marrow suppression, requires immediate medical attention

Patient summary

Imatinib tablets for chronic myeloid leukaemia and stomach tumours. It disables the abnormal protein that fuels the growth of leukaemia cells.

Mechanism of action

Inhibits the Bcr-Abl tyrosine kinase enzyme, halting signaling pathways that trigger neoplastic cellular proliferation.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Pregnancy: High risk of fetal toxicity. Do not use during pregnancy. Breastfeeding: Avoid.

FAQ

Is the Gleevec sold here the original brand?

No. Gleevec is the original brand, made by Novartis, and Direct Meds uses the name to identify the medicine: you receive a generic with the same active ingredient (imatinib) at the same strength. The generic brand and manufacturer depend on available stock.

How much does Gleevec cost in South Africa?

The price varies with pack size. Gleevec comes in a 400mg strength, in packs of 10 to 60 tablets, and the price of every option is shown above. Prices are set in US dollars and converted. Larger packs cost less per tablet.

Payment and prices →

Is Gleevec sold under other names?

In South Africa, imatinib is also sold under brand names such as Nuvitab.

What is Gleevec used for?

Gleevec contains imatinib, used for chronic myeloid leukaemia and gastrointestinal stromal tumours.

How long does Gleevec take to work?

Imatinib usually starts to work within 1 to 2 weeks. This varies from person to person.

What are the side effects of Gleevec?

The common side effects of imatinib are nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Less common ones include fluid retention, muscle cramps and fatigue. Serious but less common side effects include severe liver damage (hepatotoxicity) and severe bone marrow suppression, which need urgent medical attention.

What does Gleevec interact with?

Imatinib can interact with ketoconazole, rifampicin and warfarin. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every medicine you take before you start taking Gleevec.

Do I need a prescription to buy Gleevec in South Africa?

No, not online: Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order Gleevec. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.

Ordering without a prescription →

Do you deliver Gleevec to South Africa?

Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.

How ordering works →

What you will receive

Gleevec names the medicine you are looking for. What ships is a generic version of it.

  • A generic containing Imatinib at the strength you pick.
  • Which generic brand and maker ships depends on stock and destination.
  • Check the active ingredient, strength, form, pack, seal, batch and expiry when it arrives.

How we compare medicine brands and generics