Ganciclovir Oral

In Depth

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

Ganciclovir Oral 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 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.

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 Precautions section.

Ganciclovir 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, 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: