What is this medication for?
Ganciclovir belongs to a group of medications known as antivirals. It is used to prevent and treat a viral eye infection called cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis. This infection usually occurs for people with weakened immune systems, such as people who have had transplants or chemotherapy, and people who have HIV/AIDS. Ganciclovir works by killing the virus that causes a CMV infection. It is also used for the prevention of CMV disease for people who are receiving a solid organ transplant.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Vitrasert® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The intravenous infusion (injection into the vein) is given as an injection in the hospital. Dose and length of treatment are determined by the body weight and medical condition. Capsules should be taken by mouth with food.
The usual adult dose of ganciclovir capsules is 1000 mg taken three times daily. Alternatively, the dose of ganciclovir can be 500 mg taken six times daily (every 3 hours) during waking hours. People with kidney disease may require a lower dose of ganciclovir.
Finish all this medication, even if you have started to feel better.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is very important that this medication be used on a regular schedule as prescribed by the doctor. If you miss a dose of this medication, check with your health care professional. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Ganciclovir should not be used by anyone who is allergic to ganciclovir, acyclovir, or any ingredients of the medication.