About valganciclovir
Antiviral; cytomegalovirus DNA polymerase inhibitor
Used for
- Treats cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in people with AIDS.
- Prevents CMV disease after kidney, heart, or kidney-pancreas transplantation.
Usual adult dose
CMV retinitis: 900 mg twice daily for 21 days, then 900 mg once daily. Prevention: usually 900 mg once daily; adjust for kidney function.
Usual dose in children
Transplant prevention: for children aged 4 months to 16 years, dose is based on body surface area and kidney function.
Common side effects
- Low blood cell counts, including anemia, neutropenia, and low platelets
- Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
- Fever, headache, or fatigue
- Kidney problems
Important warnings
- Can cause severe bone marrow suppression; blood counts need monitoring.
- Dose must be adjusted for kidney function.
- May impair fertility and cause fetal harm; effective contraception is important.
- Potential long-term risk of cancer or genetic damage; handle tablets carefully.
Pregnancy
May cause fetal harm. Avoid pregnancy during treatment and use effective contraception; follow product-specific guidance after treatment.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is generally not recommended during treatment because of potential serious infant harm.
Interactions
- Zidovudine, mycophenolate, or other medicines that suppress bone marrow may increase blood-cell problems.
- Didanosine levels may rise.
- Probenecid may increase valganciclovir exposure.
- Medicines affecting kidney function may increase toxicity.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.