Valcyte

You will not be able to use Valcyte if you are receiving hemodialysis.

Special warnings about Valcyte

Valcyte may cause low blood counts. You will need to have frequent blood tests to monitor for abnormalities. Your doctor will be especially cautious if you have pre-existing blood problems or if you are taking other medications that can reduce blood counts.

Valcyte can also affect the kidneys, so your doctor will check them frequently. You should be aware that Valcyte is also considered a potential cancer-causing agent, although this possible effect has not been studied.

Valcyte can diminish fertility in both men and women. It may also prove harmful to a developing baby. Women should use birth control while taking Valcyte, and men should use condoms during treatment and for 90 days thereafter.

Convulsions, sedation, dizziness, weakness, and confusion have been reported with the use of Valcyte tablets. If any of these symptoms occur, do not drive, operate machinery, or perform any other task that requires you to be alert.

Valcyte is not a cure for CMV retinitis and your disease may worsen during or following treatment. You should have an eye exam at least every 4 to 6 weeks while being treated with Valcyte tablets.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Valcyte

If Valcyte is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Valcyte with the following:

• Didanosine (Videx)
• Mycophenolate mofetil (CellCept)
• Probenecid
• Zidovudine (Retrovir)

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Valcyte may cause birth defects and should not be used during pregnancy. It's not certain whether Valcyte appears in breast milk, but it would cause serious side effects if it did. Breastfeeding is not recommended for women taking Valcyte—or for any woman with AIDS, since the disease can be passed to the infant through breast milk.