Novartis announced that Gleevec, a cancer drug they produce, could cause diminished hear function in some patients. This is tremendously important for cancer patients who also suffer from heart disease, or an unrelated heart condition.
The active drug imatinib mesylate is used in two types of cancer: chronic myeloid leukemia and gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST). Patients with heart disease or a heart condition who need this drug can still take it, if no other alternatives are suggested by the doctor, however they have to be closely monitored for heart failure. It is not wise to discontinue the drug without talking to a doctor, so especially when you experience signs that could indicate possible heart failure, you need to immediate seek medical attention. Possible symptoms of heart failure include leg swelling, shortness of breath, and chest pains.
The problem with Gleevec is that it can produce diminished heart function or congestive heart failure later on in patients who did not immediately experience symptoms. However, the patients who were found to be affected by this during a study suffered from other medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or had a history of heart disease in their family. It is also possible that certain other drugs work in conjunction with Gleevec to produce these problems in yet another group of patients.
Novartis is currently investigating the problem, and hopefully a solution can be found for patients who depend on this drug to save their lives. For the time being though, this is again another example of why it is imperative that you keep a thorough record of the drugs you and your family are on and any history of diseases or conditions that run in your family. That way if, God forbid, something does happen in the future your doctor will be able to take these factors into account when prescribing medication.
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