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Ganciclovir - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Ganciclovir

Generic Name : Ganciclovir
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Ganciclovir are provided here.

Pronunciation : gan sye' kloe veer

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Ganciclovir, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.
You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.


ICD Code : Y41.5 Therapeutic Classification : Antivirals

Trade Names/Brand Names of Ganciclovir

India :

International :


Cytovene

Why is Ganciclovir Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an antiviral agent, prescribed for cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis (eye infection that can cause blindness) in people who have received organ or bone marrow transplants. It prevents the spread of CMV virus.

When should Ganciclovir not be taken? (Contraindications)

Hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Ganciclovir?

IV: The recommended initial dosage is 5 mg/kg (given intravenously at a constant rate over 1 hour) every 12 hours for 14 to 21 days. Maintenance: 5 mg/kg over 1 hour once daily, 7 days per week, or 6 mg/kg once daily, 5 days per week.

How should Ganciclovir be taken?

It comes as a solution for injection to be administered by a healthcare provider into the vein. It also comes as a capsule to take by mouth.

What are the warnings and precautions for Ganciclovir?

• Avoid rapid or bolus (large amount) administration.

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of mental illness, epilepsy, kidney or liver disease, eye problems, decrease in blood counts, elderly, children, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.

• Avoid any vaccination, alcohol consumption while taking this medication.

What are the side effects of Ganciclovir?

Body as a Whole- Fever, chills, infection, enlarged abdomen, weakness, chest pain, edema, headache, injection site inflammation, uneasiness and pain.
Gastrointestinal- Diarrhea, loss of appetite, vomiting, abnormal liver function test, mouth ulcer, constipation, indigestion and eructation.
Blood- Decrease in all types of blood cells.
Respiratory- Increased cough and difficulty in breathing.
Central Nervous System- Abnormal dreams, anxiety, confusion, depression, dizziness, dry mouth, sleeplessness, epilepsy, drowsiness, abnormal thinking and tremor.
Skin- Hair loss and dry skin.
Eye and ENT- Abnormal vision, taste perversion and ringing in the ear.
Metabolic- Changes in liver enzymes and weight loss.
Heart- High blood pressure, inflammation of vein and dilatation of blood vessels.
Genitourinary- Kidney failure, abnormal kidney function and urinary frequency.
Musculoskeletal- Joint/muscle pain, leg cramps and muscle weakness.

What are the other precautions for Ganciclovir?

It may lead to poor blood clot, avoid injury or bruising.

What are the storage conditions for Ganciclovir?

Store it at controlled room temperature (25°C to 30°C) and in an airtight container. Keep away from children.
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