Ganciclovir

GANCICLOVIR, 500MG, INJ.POWDER

Common uses

This medication is typically used for an eye infection caused by cytomegalovirus (CMV). It requires several days to take effect.

How to use this medication

This drug can, on occasion, be administered in a hospital or clinic setting by a doctor or a nurse, but can also be used at home. If you are taking this drug at home, make sure that the health care facility overseeing your treatment has provided you with all the necessary information regarding its administration. It is very important that you comply with the directions for use to fully benefit from the effects of this drug and to limit any adverse reactions.

Possible side effects

In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:

• it may cause diarrhea;
• it may cause a fever;
• it may cause vomiting;
• it may cause anemia (low red blood cells);
• it may lower your white blood cell count, which can lead to fever, chills, sore throat or infections -- if you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor right away;
• it can lower blood platelet count, which could lead to increased bleeding.

Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your doctor or pharmacist. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.

Storage information

Respect the provided storage instructions for this product. If you have any questions, speak to the health care professionals who are overseeing your treatment.

Additional information

Taking this medication during pregnancy may be harmful for the baby. Women of childbearing potential should use an effective contraceptive method during treatment and men who are taking the medication should use an effective contraceptive method during treatment and for several months after the end of it. Ask your healthcare professional for details.

A treatment with this medication requires regular monitoring by a doctor. Be sure to see your doctor for all regularly scheduled appointments.

General information

It is important to tell the health professionals you consult:

• if you have a history of any other medical condition, whether you smoke and for women, if you are or want to become pregnant or breastfeeding;
• if you have allergies to any medications or any other allergies (e.g. to food, latex, etc.);
• all medications you are taking, prescription and non-prescription, including vitamins and natural products and supplements.