Background Imatinib was the first BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) available for chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) treatment. Newer drugs, with a faster and better response, were subsequently developed.

Purpose To analyse the effectiveness and safety of imatinib in CML patients.

Material and methods Retrospective, observational study. Patients who picked up imatinib in our hospital (June 2011–June 2014), including those who were subsequently changed to second generation (2G)–TKI, were included.

Variables included demographics (sex, age) and clinical data (time since diagnosis, reason for termination, 2G–TKI received). Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were compiled in relation to safety.

In terms of effectiveness, we considered complete haematological and cytogenetic response and major molecular response (CHR, CCR, MMR) in patients who continued with imatinib at the time of the data compilation.

Data was compiled through the electronic prescription programme and medical records.

Results We analysed 48 patients. 45.8% (n = 22) were male, with a mean age of 58.7 (9–82). Mean time since diagnosis was 8.2 years (3–13).

31 patients continued with imatinib when data were collected. The 17 remaining changed to 2G–TKIs (10 to nilotinib, 7 to dasatinib). Reasons for termination were: intolerance (n = 9); failure and intolerance (n = 5), loss of response (n = 1), and inclusion in a clinical trial (n = 2).

Notified ADRs in our 48 patients were: skin rash-pruritus (4), musculoskeletal pain-myalgia (8), oedema (11, 8 palpebral), gastrointestinal problems (3), haematological reactions (2), other (5).

Effectiveness in patients who continued with imatinib was: 27 patients presented CHR, CCR, MMR; 1 had just died, 3 had no data available.

Conclusion

• A considerable proportion of our patients continue with imatinib, and currently present a MMR.

• The main reason for termination was intolerance.

• All the notified ADRs were included as frequent or very frequent in the Summary of Product Characteristics.

ConclusionEven with the development of newer drugs, imatinib demonstrated a good profile among our patients and continues to be a good alternative for CML treatment.

References and/or Acknowledgements No conflict of interest.