Valcyte Oral

In Depth

Generic Name: VALGANCICLOVIR- ORAL
Pronounced: (val-gan-SIGH-klow-veer)

Valcyte Oral Warning

Valganciclovir has sometimes caused severe blood problems, including a decrease in red blood cells (anemia), white blood cells (neutropenia), and platelets (thrombocytopenia). Seek immediate medical attention if you develop signs of anemia (new/severe tiredness, fast breathing, weakness, bluish fingernails/lips, pale skin, fast heartbeat). A low level of white blood cells increases the risk of serious (sometimes fatal) infections. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop a new fever, chills, cough, breathing problems, loss of appetite, weight loss, new diarrhea, or sore throat. Severely low platelets can make you more likely to bleed. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop signs of bleeding such as easy bruising, increased nose bleeds, bleeding gums, bloody or black colored bowel movements, vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

Valcyte Oral Side Effects

See also Warning section.

Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, fever, headache, shaking (tremors), swelling of the legs, constipation, back pain, drowsiness, dizziness, and trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur:

mental/mood changes (slowed thinking, confusion, depression)
decrease in the amount of urine
tingling/numbness of hands or feet
seizures
persistent nausea
stomach/abdominal pain
dark urine
yellowing eyes/skin

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: