Oral ganciclovir is used for the treatment of Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in patients with CMV retinitis who have been
stabilized on the intravenous formulation.
HOW should this drug be taken ?
The dose of ganciclovir is 1000 mg (4X 250mg) three times daily, or 500mg (2 capsules) 6 times daily during waking
hours. Ganciclovir should be taken with food.
What should you do if you FORGET a dose?
If you miss a dose of ganciclovir, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is time for your next dose, do not double the dose, just carry on with your regular schedule.
What ADVERSE EFFECTS can this drug cause ? What should you do about them?
The most serious adverse effect of ganciclovir is a fall in the number of white blood cells. This can increase your risk of
developing infections as white blood cells are needed to fight infections. Ganciclovir can also decrease the number of
platelets in the blood. This can increase your risk of bleeding or bruising as platelets are needed to help clot your blood.
Your red blood cells may also decrease which could make you feel tired or short of breath. Blood tests will be done
regularly to check for any changes in these values. If there are any problems, the dose of ganciclovir will be reduced or the drug will be stopped.
If confusion, mood swings, abnormal thought or dreams, or a rash occur while taking ganciclovir, please call the clinic.
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, or headaches may occur .If these effects occur and are bothersome, please call the clinic or discuss them at your next visit.
Your blood will also be checked for any changes in liver function and how well your kidneys are working.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU KEEP YOUR DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS, SO THAT YOUR
PROGRESS CAN BE ASSESSED REGULARLY.
IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING ANY ADVERSE EFFECTS, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE TEAM.
What other PRECAUTIONS should you follow while using this drug ?
Do not stop taking this medications without checking with your doctor first, even if you begin to feel better. Maintain your
regular visits and inform your doctor of any new medical problems that develop while you are taking ganciclovir.
Ganciclovir may cause temporary or permanent sterility or infertility in both men and women. Birth defects have occurred
in animals, therefore ganciclovir is not recommended during pregnancy, and men and women should practise barrier
contraception during and for 90 days following treatment. It is not known if ganciclovir is excreted in breast milk. Because
of abnormalities which have occurred in animals treated with ganciclovir,it is possible that nursing infants may also be
affected, therefore ganciclovir should not be given to breastfeeding mothers. If these issues are a concern to you. please discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist.
Other medications may affect the way ganciclovir works and so increase the change of side effects. Also ganciclovir may
affect the way other agents work (ie. ddI). Therefore, inform your doctor and pharmacist about all of the medications you are taking, and do not start taking other medications without discussing this first.
How should this medication be STORED?
Ganciclovir should be stored at room temperature (15-30 0 C) in a dry place, protected from light. Do not store in your
bathroom, as heat and moisture may cause the medication to lose potency. Do not open or crush ganciclovir oral capsules. Keep out of the reach of children.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS ABOUT THIS MEDICATION, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR PHARMACIST OR PHYSICIAN OR NURSE.
WRITE QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS DOWN TO ENSURE THEY ARE ADDRESSED.
A pharmacist at ___________________ is available to answer questions.
The telephone number is ___________. Please ask for ____________________.
