Ganciclovir Sodium IV

In Depth

Uses and How to Use
Dosage and Storage
Precautions and Side Effects
Drug Interactions

Generic Name: GANCICLOVIR - INJECTION
Pronounced: (gan-SYE-klo-veer)

Ganciclovir Sodium IV Warning

Ganciclovir 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 signs of a serious infection (e.g., new fever, severe chills, persistent cough, breathing problems, weight loss, persistent 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 nosebleeds, bleeding gums, bloody/black bowel movements, vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

Ganciclovir has caused decreased sperm production in animals and may decrease the ability of men to father a baby.

Ganciclovir has caused tumors in laboratory animals. Although there is no information in humans, ganciclovir should be considered cancer-causing (carcinogenic). See also How to Use section.

Ganciclovir Sodium IV Side Effects

See also Warning section.

Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, headache, shaking, swelling legs, constipation, back pain, drowsiness, dizziness, and trouble sleeping may occur. Pain/redness/irritation may occur at the injection site. If you experience pain/redness/milky discharge at the skin entry site of a central venous catheter, contact your doctor immediately. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged 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:

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