About Valganciclovir Hydrochloride
Class: | Antiviral agent (specifically, a prodrug of ganciclovir)
Use: | Treatment of cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS); prevention of CMV disease in kidney, heart, and kidney-pancreas transplant patients at high risk.
Adult dose: | Induction dose for CMV retinitis: 900 mg orally twice daily for 21 days; Maintenance dose: 900 mg orally once daily. For CMV prophylaxis in transplant patients: 900 mg orally once daily starting within 10 days
Drug Class
Antiviral agent (specifically, a prodrug of ganciclovir)
Uses & Indications
Treatment of cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS); prevention of CMV disease in kidney, heart, and kidney-pancreas transplant patients at high risk.
Storage Requirements
Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F).
Manufacturer & Packaging
Manufacturer: Alphapharm Pty Limited, AUSTRALIA
Package Size
60's
Price & Supplier
Price in UAE: AED 828.57
Dosage Information
Adult Dose
Induction dose for CMV retinitis: 900 mg orally twice daily for 21 days; Maintenance dose: 900 mg orally once daily. For CMV prophylaxis in transplant patients: 900 mg orally once daily starting within 10 days of transplantation until 100 days post-transplantation.
Pediatric Dose
Dosing is based on body surface area and renal function. For CMV prophylaxis in transplant patients aged 4 months to 16 years: 7 x BSA x CrCl (calculated using Schwartz formula) orally once daily. Maximum dose: 900 mg.
Side Effects
Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, fever, anemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and increased serum creatinine.
Contraindications & Precautions
Hypersensitivity to valganciclovir, ganciclovir, or any component of the formulation. Caution in patients with severe renal impairment.
Important Warnings
Valganciclovir has the potential for carcinogenicity, teratogenicity, and impairment of fertility. It can cause severe leukopenia, neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, pancytopenia, bone marrow failure, and aplastic anemia. Use with caution in patients with pre-existing cytopenias or those receiving myelosuppressive therapies.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.
Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider or pharmacist in the UAE before taking any medication.
The information presented here is specific to medicines available in UAE pharmacies and is regularly updated
to ensure accuracy for patients and healthcare professionals in the United Arab Emirates.