Tasigna - side effects (Donna's comments)

[Guest guest]

Hi all. I wanted to post a response when I saw Donna's comments on the

Tasigna side effects. Each of us is different and handle side effects in

various ways. I had some very unusual side effects on Tasigna - but am

seeing on the list - some of you are experiencing what I experienced. To

preface, I was on Gleevec for 6 years (after INF - Ara C therapy - that

caused Interferon related retinopathy). I had many side effects from the

Gleevec. (I was on 800 mg at the time). Last summer I went on Tasigna

for 6 months. Initially it was WONDERFUL! I actually didn't have

diarrhea constantly. It was a real treat. Unfortunately I developed a

fairly severe tremor in my hands. (And I also felt internally like my

entire body was shaking). Lottie - I believe you've experienced this too.

The most frustrating was that I lost 1/3 of my hair. At the time Novartis

didn't feel this was from the Tasigna but I have since heard from MDANderson

that indeed, it does cause hair loss in some people. I went back on

Gleevec (400 mg) in January and am glad to share that the tremors have

pretty much resolved. And my hair is totally grown back! So I wanted to

share some encouragement for you Tasigna folks. Again, I think the hair

loss if relatively rare and hopefully few of you have to deal with that!

Sending healing wishes!

Most sincerely,

Barbara Heathcote