Valcyte
Also see more information on Valcyte Oral from the
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drug library.
Brand name:
Valcyte
Pronounced: VAL-site
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.
-
More common 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.
You will not be able to use Valcyte if you are receiving
hemodialysis.
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Also see more information on Valcyte Oral from the
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