Ganciclovir (Na)
Ganciclovir (Na) Information

About Ganciclovir (Na)

Ganciclovir (Na) is antiviral agent. Ganciclovir (Na) is a guanosine analog. Ganciclovir (Na) is active against herpes simplex virus, varicella zoster and cytomegalovirus. its activity against cytomegalovirus is up to 100 times greater than that of acyclovir.

Indications

Ganciclovir (Na) is primarily indicated in conditions like Cytomegalovirus infection (risk of relapse or retinitis), Cytomegalovirus infections, Local infiltration, Prophylaxis in bone marrow transplant recipient.

Contraindication

Ganciclovir (Na) is contraindicated in conditions like Neutropenia,Thrombocytopenia,Pregnancy,Hypersensitivity to the drug,Breast feeding,Severe infections, see instruction.

Side Effects

The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Ganciclovir (Na), which give rise to further complications include Gonadal toxicity, Renal impairment.Ganciclovir (Na) produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Thrombocytopenia, Neutropenia. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Ganciclovir (Na) therapy.The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Ganciclovir (Na) include Neutropenia.The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Ganciclovir (Na) are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Diarrhea, Fever, Rashes, Confusion, Local pain, Phlebitis, Nausea and vomiting, Seizures and convulsions, Tingling, Abnormal LFT, Anemia, Eosinophilia, Abnormal mentation, Burning sensation, Confusion, Abnormal LFT.

Warnings

Close monitoring of full blood count (severe detrioration may require correction or possibly treatment interruption); history of cytopenia; low platelet count; potential carcinogen and teratogen; renal impairment; radiotherapy; ensure adequate hydration during IV- adminstration; vesicant---- infuse into vein with adequate flow preferably using plastic cannula; children (possible risk of long-term carcinogenic or reproductive toxicity not for neonatal or congenital CMV diseaese). Avoid contacting the eyes, skin or mucous membranes with the contents of the capsule, if contact occurs, wash with plenty of soap and water, thoroughly rinse eyes with plain water.

High Risk Groups

Drug should not be given to Paediatrics, Pregnant Mothers, patients suffering from Kidney dysfunction, Geriatrics, and Neonates.If prescribing authority justifies the benefits of the drug against the possible damages he/she should reevaluate them and consult the reference material and previous studies.