9 replies to this topic

[CheriMS]

Well, I have been on G for over a year now.  I have a lot of the same side effects that most others do.  The thing I have the hardest time doing is remembering to take the pill to begin with though!  I have a timer set on my cell phone to let me know when to take it but it doesn't always help.  I take it right before bed because if I take it any earlier the upset tummy comes into play and I'll be completely miserable for the rest of the day.  I have found that drinking water does help a lot rather then a soda, of course, or my favorite, java monsters.  Usually on my days off are the hardest times to remember to take my pill rather then on days I work, I guess because those days are better scheduled.  Anyone else ever have this problem or any suggestions for me?

[Tedsey]

Went out right away and bought a weekly (Su,Mo, Tu etc.) pill box.  Filled up each day with Gleevec.  It has been a very good check in for me.

[CheriMS]

I really didn't think of that, thanks.  I might go pick one up later today since I'll be near a Walmart!

[KathyK]

Hi Cheri - I have found that I too am having this problem, but I think I subconsciencely forget because of how I know it will make me feel. My side effects now have been an upset stomach or the runs about 1-11/2 hours after taking Gleevec. I'm also on a water pill 2x a day and those side effects come into play as well. Each day is different, some better than others but way better than the alternative, RIGHT?

[CheriMS]

Yea, I would like to think so!  I think I might do the same thing as you, though, specially if my stomach is already upset to begin with.  lol

[WoofWoof]

I also do the weekly pill container thing but what really helps is setting up reminders in Outlook on my computer. Just set it as a daily occurence in calendar and it will pop up on your screen.

[CheriMS]

Thanks, that doesn't seem like such a bad idea either.  Maybe I should set up an alarm on every electrical device I have in the house lol  Then everyone would be begging me to take my pill so they don't have to listen to the alarms anymore haha

[Susan61]

Hi Cheri:  A lot of people take their Gleevec with their dinner, as it is usually a bigger meal to help you absorb the pill into your system.  Some have said that by the time it would cause nausea, they have gone to bed and sleep through it.

     The end of the day could cause you to forget I guess.  I take mine every morning with a breakfast.  I do not eat a big breakfast, except maybe on a weekend.  I just make sure I have enough food in my system before I take it, and I drink a large glass of water with my pills.  I find it easier for me because I cannot start my day without my coffee, therefore, I make sure to eat something and drink my coffee and my pills are right there on the table where I sit.

This way I do not forget.  I take all my medications at one time, because they are all once a day.  I have had no problem with interaction with each other either.

    Everyone has a different schedule, so just work it into the best time of day for you.

Susan

[CheriMS]

I was actually thinking about that as well since we do eat at a normal time every night.  That might be something else I can think of.  Thanks for that tip as well and to everyone else if I've forgotten to thank you! 

[Susan61]

Hi Cheri:  Thats why this forum is so good.  Sometimes somebody else's ideas can work for you. I just play around with all the different suggestions, and try to apply it to a problem I may be having.  All the years that I have had CML, and I still welcome any suggestions to make life easier.