ImatinibPrices, Coupons & Savings

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1. Medication
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   US ONLY
2. Imatinib

   Generic for Gleevec

   Rx

   100mg

   30 tablets $12 USD

   30 tablets $12 USD - 0.4 USD/tablet
   Save $2490.60

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3. Imatinib

   Generic for Gleevec

   Rx

   400mg

   105 tablets $35.1 USD

   105 tablets $35.1 USD - 0.33 USD/tablet
   Save $8724.00

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Do you need a prescription for imatinib?

Yes, imatinib is only available with a valid physician Rx.

How much is imatinib without Insurance in the US?

Our website gives two competitive savings options to US customers who wish to purchase imatinib, as either a brand or generic, if available. The first is access to medications through our mail-order online pharmacy. The second is by using the Now Patient Rx Advantage Card, which can be used in over 65,000 pharmacies nationwide, across America. If you are insured, then in most cases, the cash price will be significantly cheaper than the copay.

What will my out-of-pocket cost be for imatinib in the US?

There are no out-of-pocket (OOP) costs because we are currently only offering a cash-based option to purchase medications.

Is Now Patient a imatinib savings card?

Yes. Save up to 90% on your imatinib with the FREE Now Patient Rx Advantage card*.
*Based on the difference between the U&C submitted by the pharmacy and the price the patients pay.

Can you handle Rx transfers for home delivery in the US?

Yes. If you use the mail-order online pharmacy option, then we can handle requests by you to have your prescription transferred to our pharmacy for home delivery. We can even help you manage your refills by giving you timely reminders, so you do not run out of your medication.

Is Now Patient a imatinib coupon provider in the US?

No. Now Patient does not provide imatinib coupons or FREE imatinib samples.

Do you accept commercial, Medicare or Medicaid coverage for imatinib in the US?

No. Currently, we only offer cash-based options for purchase, therefore we do not require your insurance benefit details. In the future, our plan is to be able to handle commercial insurance, Medicare and Medicaid including cases where you have multiple health plans that provide benefit coverage (e.g. Medicaid and Commercial). We also anticipate being able to handle more complex scenarios such as using primary insurance combined with a manufacturer copay assistance program.

Does Now Patient work with Medicare?

Our cash-based prices for medications are typically cheaper than Medicare copays. We do not bill Medicare Part D (standalone drug coverage) or Medicare Advantage (combined health and drug coverage). When you purchase your medication from Now Patient, you will be doing so out of your pocket. The spend will not count towards your plan deductibles or gaps.

Does Now Patient work with Commercial Insurance?

Our cash-based prices for medications are typically cheaper than commercial plan copays. We do not bill your commercial plan. When you purchase your medication from Now Patient, you will be doing so out of your pocket. The spend will not count towards your plan deductibles or gaps.

What should you do if you use too much imatinib?

US

Call your doctor right away or seek immediate medical attention if your symptoms do not improve or they become worse after using imatinib. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach the American Association of Poison Control Centers or use its online resource if you think you’ve used too much imatinib. But if you have severe symptoms, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately or go to the nearest emergency room.

UK

If you think it is an emergency, call 999 or find your nearest A&E
If you need help now, but it’s not an emergency go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111. Alternatively you can speak to one of our pharmacists or use the Now Patient app to make an appointment with your GP.

What should I do if I miss my dose?

There are occasions when people forget to take their medication at correct prescribed times. This may not only have an effect on potentially making the medication less effective but it may also inadvertently lead to taking doses too close together, thereby increasing the risks of side effects.

Click here to find out what to do if you forgot to take your medication

What is imatinib?

Imatinib is a medication used in the treatment of certain types of cancer. It belongs to a class of drugs called tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which work by blocking the action of abnormal proteins that promote the growth of cancer cells.

FDA approval of Imatinib

Imatinib is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of various types of cancers, including chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), and certain types of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

Active ingredient of imatinib

The active ingredient of imatinib is imatinib mesylate.

US brand name of imatinib and manufacturer

Imatinib is available in the United States under the brand name Gleevec. It is manufactured by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. The first clinical trial of imatinib took place in 1998 and the drug received FDA approval in May 2001.

UK brand name of imatinib and manufacturer

In the United Kingdom, imatinib is also marketed under the brand name Glivec (pronounced glee-vec). The manufacturer of Glivec in the UK may vary.

Generic availability of imatinib

Generic versions of imatinib are available in some countries. These versions are typically sold under the name imatinib followed by the name of the manufacturer.

Prescription requirement for imatinib

Imatinib is a prescription medication in the United States and the United Kingdom. It is important to consult a healthcare provider who specializes in the treatment of cancer to determine if imatinib is appropriate for you.

Availability of imatinib in the UK with NHS prescription

Imatinib is available with a National Health Service (NHS) prescription in the United Kingdom. It can be obtained from pharmacies with a valid prescription from a healthcare professional.

Conditions treated by imatinib

Imatinib is a cancer drug that targets BCR-ABL, platelet-derived growth factor receptor, and stem cell receptor c-Kit. It is used to treat a number of leukemias, chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative disease, aggressive systemic mastocytosis, hypereosinophilic syndrome, dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) and Philadelphia chromosome positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL) and bone marrow conditions.

How does imatinib work?

Imatinib is a targeted therapy medication used to treat certain types of cancers such as chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting specific proteins that are involved in the growth and multiplication of cancer cells.

Imatinib works by selectively binding to and inhibiting the activity of tyrosine kinases, which are enzymes responsible for the activation of various signaling pathways involved in cell growth and division. Specifically, imatinib targets and inhibits the activity of the BCR-ABL protein in CML and the KIT protein in GIST.

In the case of CML, the BCR-ABL protein is formed as a result of a genetic abnormality called the Philadelphia chromosome positive. This abnormal protein promotes the uncontrolled growth and survival of cancer cells. By inhibiting the activity of the BCR-ABL protein, imatinib helps to halt the proliferation of cancer cells and induce their death.

In GIST, the KIT protein is often mutated and hyperactive, leading to uncontrolled cell growth. Imatinib inhibits the activity of the mutated KIT protein, thereby blocking the pathways that contribute to the growth and survival of GIST cells.

By targeting these specific proteins, imatinib disrupts the signaling pathways that promote cancer cell growth and survival. This helps to slow down the progression of CML and GIST, and in some cases, may even lead to complete remission.

Forms of imatinib available

Imatinib is available as an oral tablet.

Dosage of imatinib

The dosage of imatinib may vary depending on the type of cancer being treated, the individual’s body weight, and other factors. It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by the healthcare provider and not exceed the prescribed dose. Usual adult dose of imatinib for chronic myelogenous leukemia:

• Chronic phase: 400 mg tablet orally once a day
• Accelerated phase or blast crisis: 600 mg tablet orally once a day

Usual pediatric dose of imatinib for chronic myelogenous leukemia: 1 year and older:

• 340 mg/m2 orally once a day or 170 mg/m2 orally 2 times a day
• Maximum dose: 600 mg daily

Directions for imatinib use

Imatinib is typically taken orally with a meal and a full glass of water. It is important to take imatinib as prescribed by the healthcare provider and follow their instructions regarding the dosing schedule and duration of treatment.

Side effects of imatinib

Common side effects of imatinib may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle cramps, edema, (fluid retention), loss of appetite and fatigue. It may also cause more serious side effects, such as low blood cell counts, liver problems, heart-related issues, and potential risks to developing fetuses during pregnancy. Some cancer treatments can cause severe side effects. Rarely, these may be life-threatening. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any severe or persistent side effects.

Warnings and precautions

• Patients should be monitored for blood-related disorders during imatinib therapy such as  neutropenia (low level of certain white blood cells), anemia and thrombocytopenia
• Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart disease, heart failure, lung disease, thyroid disease, kidney disease or liver disease
• The use of imatinib is advised against in people on strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, such as clarithromycin, chloramphenicol, ketoconazole, ritonavir and nefazodone
• Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while taking this medication
• Call your doctor right away if you have shortness of breath, rapid weight gain, a heartbeat that is not normal, or swelling in the arms or legs that is new or worse

Drug interactions 

It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products such as St.John’s Wort you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

• Imatinib may interact with certain medications, potentially affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking to avoid adverse events

Possible drug interactions include:

• Anticoagulants (blood thinners) such as warfarin
• Certain antibiotics like clarithromycin and erythromycin
• Medications that affect liver enzymes such as rifampin and phenytoin

Note: This is not an exhaustive list. Always consult your healthcare provider for a complete list of potential drug interactions before starting imatinib treatment.

Is imatinib safe to take if I am pregnant or planning on becoming Pregnant?

Imatinib may cause harm to an unborn baby. It is important to discuss with your healthcare provider about the use of imatinib if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Alternative treatment options may be considered.

Is imatinib safe to take if I am breastfeeding?

Imatinib may pass into breast milk, its use during breastfeeding is not recommended. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider for individualized recommendations.

Sources:

• FDA Prescribing Information for Gleevec (Imatinib)
• NHS – Imatinib
• WebMD – Imatinib
• Drugs.com – Imatinib