Last Updated on July 3, 2025
Gleevec has played a revolutionary role in the treatment of certain cancers, offering new hope for people living with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), and other serious conditions. But the cost of Gleevec—or even its generic versions—can be a serious financial burden for many patients.
At NeedyMeds, we understand how complex and overwhelming it can feel to navigate the cost of medications. That’s why we’ve collected all the known coupons for Gleevec that you can view on our website. In this blog, we’ll discuss some of the savings programs for Gleevec that we’ve found.
What is Gleevec?
Gleevec, also known by its generic name imatinib mesylate, is a targeted oral cancer treatment that works by blocking abnormal proteins that drive the growth of cancer cells. It is commonly used to treat chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL), gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), and several other rare cancers.
Since its FDA approval in 2001, Gleevec is considered a groundbreaking therapy. It allows patients with certain cancers to manage their disease with daily medication. Treatment with Gleevec or imatinib is typically long term and may continue indefinitely, depending on the patient’s condition and response to treatment. While generic versions are now available, affordability remains a concern for many patients.
Why is Gleevec so expensive?
Although Gleevec has been off patent for several years, the costs remain high for many patients. Most patients need to take it every day, sometimes for the rest of their lives, which adds up quickly. Even though generics exist, pricing can vary widely from one pharmacy or insurance plan to another. Some insurance providers may place the drug on a higher copay tier, limiting affordability.
Cash prices for a 30-day supply of imatinib can still range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the dosage, dispensing pharmacy, and insurance coverage. Fortunately, savings programs are available to help eligible patients reduce these high costs.
Gleevec Manufacturer Coupons
If you have commercial insurance, you may qualify for a manufacturer copay savings card for either Gleevec or Teva’s generic version:
- Gleevec Novartis Oncology Universal Co-Pay Card: Eligible patients may pay as little as $0 by signing up for the program.
- Imatinib Mesylate Tablets Savings Card: Teva offers a copay card for the generic version of Gleevec. If eligible, patients may pay as little as $0 per prescription. A PDF is available to print out and present at your pharmacy.
To stay up to date on Gleevec coupons and savings cards, we encourage you to visit our coupons page, as we update it with the latest offers.
Does Gleevec Have A Patient Assistance Program (PAP)?
Novartis does not currently offer a PAP for Gleevec, but there are other assistance programs that can help with the cost.
The PAN Foundation
The PAN Foundation offers three funding opportunities for Gleevec. Eligible applicants must be a US resident and receive treatment for the following diseases:
- Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors: Covers up to $4,000 per year, for applicants with Medicare under 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
- Melanoma: Covers up to $5,800 per year, for applicants with Medicare under 500% of the FPL.
- Philadelphia Chromosome Negative Myeloproliferative Neoplasms: Covers up to $8,000 per year, for applicants with Medicare under 500% of the FPL.
Funding is available on a first-come, first-serve basis, so the earlier you apply the better your chances are of getting approved. If funding for a disease is closed, you can sign up for notifications that let you know when they open back up.
The HealthWell Foundation
The HealthWell Foundation also offers three funding opportunities for Gleevec for the following diseases:
- Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: Covers up to $6,500 per year, for patients with Medicare Part B under 500% of the FPL.
- Head and Neck Cancer: Covers up to $6,500 per year, for patients with Medicare Part B under 400% of the FPL.
- Myelodysplastic Syndromes: Covers up to $6,500 per year, for patients whose insurance covers the medication with income under 500% of the FPL.
Like the PAN Foundation, HealthWell offers funds on a first-come, first-serve basis, so it’s best to sign up as soon as they become available. Healthwell allows patients to sign up for notifications to alert them once funds open back up.
Stay up to date on assistance programs for Gleevec by visiting our site and check back frequently to see if we added new programs.
Final Thoughts
Gleevec and its generic alternatives are critical therapies, but they don’t have to come with unaffordable price tags. With these assistance programs, there are real options for lowering or eliminating your out-of-pocket expenses.
To learn which programs you qualify for, visit our website or call us at 800-503-6897.
