Ganciclovir

Ganciclovir Overview

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Ganciclovir is a prescription medication used to treat cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection of the eye. It is also used to prevent cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease in patients whose immune system is not working normally.

Ganciclovir belongs to a group of drugs called antivirals. It works by preventing the spread of CMV disease or slowing the growth of CMV.

This medication is available as an ophthalmic gel to be applied to the eyes to treat infection of the eyes.

Ganciclovir is available in capsule form and is usually taken three times a day, with food.

This medication is also available in an injectable form to be given directly into a vein (IV) by a healthcare professional.

Common side effects of ganciclovir capsules and injection include fever and diarrhea.

Common side effects of ganciclovir ophthalmic gel include blurred vision and eye irritation. Since this medication can cause blurred vision,do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how ganciclovir affects you.

How was your experience with Ganciclovir?

First, a little about yourself

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What tips would you provide a friend before taking Ganciclovir?

What are you taking Ganciclovir for?

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  • Other
  • Aids-related Opportunistic Infections
  • Cytomegalovirus Infections
  • Cytomegalovirus Retinitis

How long have you been taking it?

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  • Less than a week
  • A couple weeks
  • A month or so
  • A few months
  • A year or so
  • Two years or more

How well did Ganciclovir work for you?

Did you experience many side effects while taking this drug?

How likely would you be to recommend Ganciclovir to a friend?

Ganciclovir Cautionary Labels

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precautions

Uses of Ganciclovir

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Ganciclovir is a prescription medication used to treat cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis (eye infection that can cause blindness). It is also used to prevent cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease.

Ganciclovir is a prescription medication used in patients whose immune system is not working properly such as patients who have acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) or who have received an organ transplant.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Ganciclovir Brand Names

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Ganciclovir may be found in some form under the following brand names:

Ganciclovir Drug Class

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Ganciclovir is part of the drug class:

Side Effects of Ganciclovir

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Serious side effects have been reported with ganciclovir. See the “Ganciclovir Precautions” section.

Capsules and Injection:

Common side effects of ganciclovir include the following:

  • change in blood counts
  • fever
  • infection
  • chills
  • diarrhea
  • loss of appetite
  • vomiting
  • neuropathy (weakness, numbness and pain, usually in your hands and feet)
  • sweating
  • itching
  • retinal detachment (separation)

Ophthalmic Gel:

  • blurred vision
  • eye irritation
  • watery eyes
  • eyes sensitive to light
  • red eye
  • change in vision

This is not a complete list of ganciclovir side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.