How is Ganciclovir dosed?
For the treatment of CMV retinitis after receiving ganciclovir injection for at least fourteen to twenty-one days, the oral route dosage is 1000 milligrams (mg) three times a day with food, or 500 mg six times a day, every three hours with food, during waking hours. For the prevention of CMV in transplant patients, dosing is based on body weight and determined by a doctor. Injections are administered every twelve hours for seven to fourteen days, followed by a reduced dose once a day for seven days a week, or 6 mg per kilogram (2.7 mg per pound) of body weight injected once a day for five days a week. Children's dosages must be determined by a doctor.
What is the dosage form of Ganciclovir?
Ganciclovir is available in both oral and intravenous forms. The oral form, usually in the form of capsules, is used to treat CMV retinitis after initial treatment with intravenous ganciclovir. The intravenous form is administered through a vein and is used for both treatment and prevention of CMV infection in transplant patients. The dosage and frequency of administration for both forms depend on factors like age, body weight, and the medical condition being treated. It is crucial to follow the doctor's orders or the instructions on the label when taking this medication, as dosage information provided may only include average doses and individual doses may vary.
What are common precautions when taking Ganciclovir?
Common precautions when taking ganciclovir orally or through intravenous routes include:
- Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any history of allergic reactions to ganciclovir or other medications.
- Blood problems: Ganciclovir may cause blood problems such as anemia and other blood disorders. Your doctor will closely monitor your blood during treatment.
- Eye problems: If you have CMV retinitis, it is essential to have regular eye exams with your ophthalmologist to monitor for any loss of vision.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as ganciclovir may harm your unborn child or newborn.
- Pediatric use: The dosage for children is determined by the doctor and may differ from adult dosages.
- Liver function: Ganciclovir may cause liver damage; therefore, it is essential to inform your doctor if you have liver problems or a history of liver disease.
- Medication interactions: Inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including prescription, non-prescription, and herbal supplements, as some drugs may interact with ganciclovir.
It is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions and report any side effects or unusual symptoms promptly. Always take ganciclovir under medical supervision.