Valcyte

Generic name: Valganciclovir

Why is Valcyte prescribed?

Valcyte tablets are used in the treatment of an eye disease called cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis, one of the many infections that take hold when the immune system is undermined by AIDS.

Valcyte is also used to prevent CMV disease in people who've had a kidney, heart, or kidney-pancreas transplant. Valcyte is not approved for use in liver transplant patients.

Valcyte is very similar to the CMV medication Cytovene (ganciclovir).

Most important fact about Valcyte

To avoid an overdose, it is essential to take only the prescribed number of Valcyte tablets each day. These tablets are more potent than Cytovene capsules, and cannot be substituted on a one-for-one basis.

How should you take Valcyte?

Valcyte is usually taken twice a day for the first three weeks, then once a day. It should be taken with food.

Be careful to avoid breaking Valcyte tablets. If a tablet does break, keep the pieces out of direct contact with skin, eyes, and mouth. If contact is unavoidable, wash thoroughly with soap and water and rinse the eyes with plain water.

• If you miss a dose...
  Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule.

• Storage instructions...
  Store at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Valcyte.

• Side effects may include:
  Abdominal pain, anemia and other blood abnormalities, burning or prickling feeling, diarrhea, fever, graft rejection, headache, high blood pressure, insomnia, mental changes, nausea, retinal detachment, tremors, vision problems, vomiting

Why should Valcyte not be prescribed?

If Valcyte gives you an allergic reaction, or you've had an allergic reaction to Cytovene, you will not be able to use this medication.