Ganciclovir is an antiviral, which prevents the spread of the cytomegalovirus or slows their growth.
What is Ganciclovir?
Ganciclovir is used to treat retinitis by cytomegalovirus in people with a compromised immune system. It can also be used to prevent diseases associated with cytomegalovirus in those suffering from acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or in patients who are at risk as a result of an organ transplant.
How should Ganciclovir be taken?
Treatment with ganciclovir begins with an initial phase in which the drug is administered into a vein. After several weeks it continues with oral intake in the form of capsules that must be swallowed whole and on a full stomach for 3-6 times a day.
In case of adverse effects the dose may be reduced during treatment. If your symptoms get worse you may need a second cycle administered intravenously.
Side effects associated with Ganciclovir
The potential recognized adverse effects of ganciclovir may include:
- Redness
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Depression
- Diarrhea
- Pain or cramping in the muscles
- Belching
- Stomach ache
- Nausea
- Nervousness
- Loss of appetite
- Bizarre dreams
- Sweating
- Oral ulcers
- The perception of taste changes
- Vomiting
It is important to immediately contact your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Mood swings
- Convulsions
- Chest pains
- Swelling of the hands, arms, feet, ankles or calves
- Numbness, pain, burning or tingling in the hands or feet
- Urticaria
- Vision problems (for example, flashes of light)
- Itching
- Rash
- Uncontrollable tremors of the hands
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Ganciclovir
During treatment with ganciclovir it is important to drink a lot of fluids.
The capsules should not be opened and their contents must not come into contact with the skin, eyes, mouth or nose. If there is contact, it is recommended to wash the skin thoroughly with soap and water or rinse your eyes thoroughly with water.
Prior to treatment with ganciclovir you should tell your doctor if:
You have any allergic reactions to ganciclovir, acyclovir, valganciclovir or any other medication
You are taking other medications, herbal remedies and supplements, especially when if you are taking aminoglycoside antibiotics, amphotericin B, captopril, diuretics, foscarnet, gold compounds, imipenem-cilastatin, immunoglobulins, methicillin, muromonab- CD3, mycophenolate mofetil, nitrates, penicillamine, primaquine, probenecid, rifampin or other nucleoside analogues (such as acyclovir)
You are suffering (or has suffered) from anemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia or other bleeding disorders, psychiatric diseases, seizures, ophthalmologic disorders, as well as kidney or liver diseases
You are breast-feeding
Moreover, prior to any surgical intervention, it is also recommended to alert surgeons and dentists if you are being treated with ganciclovir and remember that the drug can interfere with your ability to drive or operate hazardous machinery.
