7 replies to this topic

[Mobirdies]

I have been taking gleevec for about six months now and everything was going okay just a few side effects with gleevec ans this weekend I h ad surgery to remove my appendix.  The doctor told me to stop taking gleevec until I recover from surgery.  I'm concerned that if i stop taking gleevec is going to set me back.  Has anyone a similar exprience? Also, do you think gleevec caused thi surgery?

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

[Trey]

The doc just wanted to make sure you didn't bleed excessively due to the surgery.  Gleevec does not have a history of such issues, and I doubt it had anything to do with it.  But you cannot rule it out as a contributing factor to an already weakened appendix since Gleevec can affect the lining of the intestines in some ways (inhibiting the c-Kit in the intestinal lining) and may have added to its inflammation.  So not a cause, but maybe (emphasize possible, not probable) Gleevec could have added somewhat to the symptoms.

You should be able to re-start Gleevec within a couple days after surgery.  Ask your doc.

[Mobirdies]

Thank you for your feeback Trey.

[Mobirdies]

Hi Trey,

I contacted my doctor and he wants me to star taking gleevec again when I fully recover in 2 to 3 weeks.  I hope this doesn't set me back or make my situation worst.

[Sneezy12]

I had major back surgery and missed only one dose of Gleevec. Frank

[Trey]

The "fully recover" thing is not a useful goal for re-starting the drug.  What does "fully recover" mean anyway?  What does that have to do with Gleevec?  Ask the doc what they are trying to achieve with that as a goal.  Nothing, as long as your platelets are adequate.  If it were me, and my platelets were adequate, I would re-start after a couple days -- but that's just me and not telling you to do that.

[lnadal]

I had my appendix out after seven years on Gleevec.  I was able to start my Gleevec three days after surgery with no ill effects. 

My surgeon consulted with Dr.Mauro.  Dr. Mauro at OHSU didn't think the appendicitis, Gleevec use, and the CML were related.  Lynn N

[Stevea]

I had my appendix taken out after about 9 and half years on Gleevec.  I did not miss a day of Gleevec.  It did take a long time for the little scar to heel so I can't see waiting until you are fully recovered.