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Valcyte

Valcyte

Valganciclovir belongs to a group of medications known as antivirals. It is used to treat a viral eye infection called cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis for people with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Available form

Dosage

Tablet

450MG

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Valcyte information

Dosage

Side Effects

Available Form

Contraindications

Precautions

Warnings

For people with active CMV retinitis, the usual dose is 900 mg twice a day with food for 21 days. After 21 days of treatment, or for people with inactive CMV retinitis, the dose is 900 mg once a day with food.

For people who have received a solid organ transplant, the recommended dose is 900 mg once daily with food starting within 10 days of transplantation and continued for 100 days after the transplantation.

If you have reduced kidney function, you may require a lower dose of valganciclovir, as recommended by your doctor.

If you are using the tablets, do not break or crush them. If you are using the oral solution, use the measuring device provided for accurate dosing. Shake the bottle well for about 5 seconds before each use.

If you accidentally get broken tablets or solution on your skin, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water. If you accidentally get broken tablets or solution in your eyes, rinse your eyes thoroughly with sterile or plain water.

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 important to take Valcyte exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The amount of virus in your blood may increase even if you stop your medication for a short time. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Store the tablets at room temperature, protect them from moisture, and keep them out of the reach of children.

Store the oral solution in the refrigerator and keep it out of the reach of children. Discard any solution that is not used within 49 days.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent. The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes Valcyte. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of Valcyte with your doctor.

The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking Valcyte. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.

Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.

anxiety
back pain
Constipation
Diarrhea
dizziness
drowsiness
dry, red itchy skin
fatigue
Fever
headache
heartburn
joint pain
nausea or vomiting
trembling
trouble sleeping
weight loss

Although most of the side effects listed below don't happen very often, they could lead to serious problems if you do not check with your doctor or seek medical attention

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

confusion
high blood pressure
numbness, tingling, or burning sensations
signs of an infection (e.g., cough, chills, mouth sores, redness on any area of your body, nasal congestion, sore throat, runny nose, night sweats, pain or burning when urinating)
signs of graft rejection (transplanted organ not functioning properly; e.g., feeling ill or uncomfortable, fever)
signs of kidney problems (e.g., swelling of the legs, decreased urine amount, lower back pain)
symptoms of Anemia (e.g., feeling tired, shortness of breath, paleness, rapid heartbeat)
symptoms of Depression (e.g., lack of motivation or energy, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, difficulty concentrating)
unusual bleeding and bruising
unusual tiredness or weakness
white patches on the mouth, tongue, or throat

Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:

seizures
signs of a serious allergic reaction (e.g., swelling of the face or throat, Hives, or difficulty breathing)

Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking Valcyte.

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Valcyte.

Blood disorders: Valganciclovir can cause a reduction in certain blood cells, which can lead to serious problems. People with certain severe blood disorders (e.g., anemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia) may not be able to use Valcyte. Your doctor will monitor you closely while you are taking Valcyte for any signs of blood cell problems.

Cancer: Although it has not been clearly demonstrated in humans, there is the possibility that valganciclovir might cause certain types of cancer. If you have concerns, discuss this with your doctor.

Drowsiness/reduced alertness: Valganciclovir may reduce alertness. Avoid activities such as driving or operating machinery until you know whether the medication affects you in this way.

Kidney Disease: People with reduced kidney function may need a lower dose of Valcyte. Valganciclovir may also cause kidney problems. Your doctor will monitor you while you are on Valcyte.

Fertility and pregnancy: Valganciclovir may decrease fertility in both men and women, and these effects may last for some time after the medication has been stopped. Valcyte should not be used during pregnancy because it can harm the developing child. Men and women who are taking valganciclovir should ensure their partners are aware of the risks and practice effective birth control, which includes barrier protection (e.g., condoms) and one additional form of contraception (e.g., birth control pills, intrauterine device). Effective birth control should be practiced for at least 90 days after stopping the medication.

Breast-feeding: It is not known if valganciclovir passes into breast milk. It is recommended that women taking Valcyte should not breast-feed.

Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Valcyte have not been established for children.

Seniors: Seniors may require lower doses of Valcyte due to age-related decreases in kidney function.

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