What is ganciclovir used to treat?
Ganciclovir is an antiviral. It is used to treat infections caused by viruses. Ganciclovir is used to treat the symptoms of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection of the eyes in people whose immune system is not working fully. This includes patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).
How long does ganciclovir take to work?
Reduced white blood cells: Ganciclovir can cause low levels of white blood cells. This usually happens within 1 to 2 weeks of starting treatment.
What medication is used to treat CMV?
The drug of choice for treatment of CMV disease is intravenous ganciclovir, although valganciclovir may be used for nonsevere CMV treatment in selected cases. Ganciclovir is a nucleoside analogue that inhibits DNA synthesis in the same manner as acyclovir.
Does ganciclovir make you tired?
if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking ganciclovir. you should know that ganciclovir may make you drowsy, dizzy, unsteady, confused or less alert, or may cause seizures.
What is the side effect of ganciclovir?
The most common adverse reactions and laboratory abnormalities reported in at least 20% of patients were pyrexia, diarrhea, leukopenia, nausea, anemia, asthenia, headache, cough, decreased appetite, dyspnea, abdominal pain, sepsis, hyperhidrosis, and blood creatinine increased.
Is foscarnet a hazardous drug?
May be harmful by inhalation, ingestion, or skin absorption. May cause damage to {kidney, oral} through prolonged or repeated exposure. May cause eye, skin, or respiratory system irritation. Suspected of causing genetic defects.
How long can you be on ganciclovir?
The usual dose of intravenous ganciclovir for the initial treatment of CMV is 5 mg / kg every 12 hours for 14 to 21 days. To prevent a relapse of CMV, the usual dose is 5 mg / kg once daily every day of the week, or 6 mg / kg once daily 5 days a week. The dose may need to be adjusted if you have kidney problems.
How long does it take to get rid of CMV?
Symptoms will generally go away after 2 weeks. Symptoms of recurring CMV vary, depending on which organs the virus has affected. Areas likely to be affected are the eyes, lungs, or digestive system.
How do you recover from a CMV virus?
Most people recover in 4 to 6 weeks without medicine. Rest is needed, sometimes for a month or longer to regain full activity levels. Painkillers and warm salt-water gargles can help relieve symptoms.
Is ganciclovir a chemo?
Conclusions: Ganciclovir is the only antiviral chemotherapy which reduces the risk of CMV infection or disease after most types of major transplantation.