What condition does Ganciclovir Sodium treat?
Ganciclovir Sodium is used to prevent cytomegalovirus (CMV). It is a disease that is caused by a virus. It usually occurs in people who have received an organ or one marrow transplant. CMV may lead to a serious infection in the body. It includes an infection in the eye called CMV retinitis that can cause blindness.
This medication may also be used to treat those with weakened immune systems who have CMV retinitis. It includes people with AIDS.
Ganciclovir Sodium is a synthetic guanine derivative that is effective against CMV. It belongs to the class of medications called antivirals.
This medication is used for intravenous injection. Each vial has Ganciclovir Sodium equivalent to 500 mg. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already approved this medication.
How does Ganciclovir Sodium work?
Ganciclovir Sodium works by slowing the development of the CMV virus. It helps control the disease and lessens the risk of blindness. It also helps prevent the spread of infection to other parts of the body.
What is the recommended dosage for Ganciclovir Sodium?
The recommended initial dose for this medication is 5 mg/kg. It is given every 12 hours for 7 to 14 days. It is to be given intravenously at a constant rate of over an hour.
Do not give this medication any faster than any prescribed. By doing so, it will increase the risk of side effects. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. Continue taking the drug exactly as it is prescribed. Do not skip any doses or stop using this even for a short time. Skipping or stopping it without the consent of your doctor may make the infection worse.
Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Special disposal is required for this medication and all injection supplies used with it. Consult your pharmacist for more information.
What are the side effects of Ganciclovir Sodium?
- Upset stomach
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Decreased appetite
- Dizziness
- Unsteadiness
- Increased sweating
- Injection site reactions such as redness, pain, or irritation
- Itching
- Drowsiness
- Shaking or tremors
What are the precautions in using Ganciclovir Sodium?
- Before taking this medicine, inform your doctor if you have any medical history. Tell also if you have any other allergies.
- Older adults may be at greater risk for kidney problems while using this drug.
- Wear gloves when you handle this drug. Avoid direct contact with the liquid and avoid getting it into your skin.
- To lower the chance of getting bruised, cut, or injured, use caution with sharp objects like nail cutters or razors, and avoid activities such as contact sports.
- It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Due to the possible risk to the infant, breastfeeding is not recommended while using this medication. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding. If you have HIV, do not breastfeed because breast milk can transmit HIV.
- Women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication.
- Call for medical help if there are signs of an allergic reaction.
- Keep this at a dry and clean place away from heat and moisture.
