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Glivec ending migraines?

I posted this same question a number of years ago when I started on Glivec, but nobody had a clue. I've just logged on after years of getting on with life on Glivec and am amazed about how much more discussion there is now around CML! I am 31 and was diagnosed 3.5 years ago. I had suffered from severe migraines since I was 18 and from the day I started on Glivec for CML I have had no migraines and actually no proper headaches either (I get the preliminary signs of a headache, but not the actual headache). Has anyone else experienced this rather nice side effect? My consultants have seemed surprised by it! I'm just interested to know why!

V -

Yes, me too! I have had migraines for a number of years but since my diagnosis [also 3.5 years ago], I've not had any either. Nor have I had many headaches, such a relief from the regular grotty days I had before CML.

I don't know why this is, whether it's my altered blood chemistry courtesy of CML, or an entirely unexpected side effect of glivec, but I'm very pleased!

Janet

I suffered from migraines since I was 11 and then they stopped for the 8 months I was on Glivec, bliss! However going onto Dasatanib bought them back about 10 times worse. I did mention it to my consultant who was planning to pass details to the manufacturer. K

Been on Glivec since last Sept and haven't had a migraine. Had been a sufferer for over 40 years, so was wondering if the welcome lack had anything to do with Glivec. Long may it continue!

caroline m

I was diagnosed with CML exactly five years ago.
I have not had a migraine since taking Glivec and have rarely experienced headaches. I had many years of debilitating headaches and migraines prior to diagnosis; looking back on that time, I do wonder if it was a sign that something was going wrong!

Hi,

I was also suffered from migraines but didn't have one on Glivec and it was a very welcome side effect, I have since moved onto Tasigna and within the first week had a migraine, however in balance I am very happy to be on Tasigna.

But I really think it can't just be a coincidence? I have heard quite a few people mention this relief.

Take care all
Lynn x

Hi, I have been on Glivec since 2001 (19 years old), and every month with my period the migraine visit me since I had 10. Now I have 30 years old and still having migraine.

So, maybe it`s not the Glivec. Maybe it`s the food or you new style of leaving.

PD. sorry my wording I don`t write very well the English.

Claudia Fernandez
Dominican Republic

My daughter ( age 14 ) has had terrible headaches since diagnosis & starting imatinib in 09/09 we assumed it was a side effect of the medication. I wonder if anyone else has noted this