Medindia LOGIN REGISTER
Medindia

Valganciclovir - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

Advertisement

Information about Valganciclovir

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

Pronunciation : VAL-gan-SYE-kloe-vir

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Valganciclovir, 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 Valganciclovir

International :


Valcyte

Why is Valganciclovir Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an antiviral agent, prescribed for cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis. It stops the growth and reproduction of the virus.

When should Valganciclovir not be taken? (Contraindications)

Hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Valganciclovir?

Induction: PO- The recommended dose is 900 mg (two 450 mg tablets) twice a day for 21 days.

How should Valganciclovir be taken?

It comes as a tablet and solution take by mouth, with food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Valganciclovir?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of congenital CMV disease, blood cell or platelet problems, history of bone marrow depression, kidney, heart, or liver disease, any allergy, who are taking other medications, elderly, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

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

• Extreme caution needed in children less than 4 months old.

• Avoid contact with people who have infections.

• It may reduce platelet counts; avoid injury or bruising.

• It may decrease sperm counts; consult with your healthcare before taking this medication.

• Monitor complete blood counts, and kidney function while taking this medication.

What are the side effects of Valganciclovir?

Most Common - Diarrhea, fever, nausea, tremor, anemia, graft rejection, decrease in white blood cells and platelet counts, vomiting.
Allergic reactions - Hypersensitivity.
Bleeding complications - Potentially life-threatening bleeding associated with thrombocytopenia.
Central Nervous System - Tingling, dizziness, convulsion, depression, psychosis, hallucinations, confusion and agitation.
Gastrointestinal - Abdominal pain, constipation, indigestion, abdominal distention and ascites.
General - Fatigue, pain, fluid retention, swelling in the extremities and weakness.
Blood - Anemia and bone marrow depression.
Liver - Abnormal liver function.
Metabolic - Increased blood sugar, decreased appetite, dehydration and decrease in blood minerals.
Musculoskeletal - Back pain, joint pain, muscle cramps and limb pain.
Genitourinary - Kidney impairment, painful urination and decreased creatinine clearance.
Respiratory - Cough, difficulty in breathing, runny nose and lung inflammation.
Skin - Skin inflammation, itching and pimples.
Heart - Low blood pressure.

What are the other precautions for Valganciclovir?

Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for Valganciclovir?

Store it at controlled room temperature (15°C to 30°C).
Advertisement