Valganciclovir

Dosage Forms Available

• Valganciclovir is available in the form of tablets for use via oral route. It is also available as an oral solution.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Valganciclovir is primarily meant for use in adults.

• It can also be used in children, but the doctor will determine the specific age range and dosage based on the child's weight and other health conditions.

Contraindications

• Valganciclovir is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to valganciclovir or ganciclovir.

• It is also contraindicated in patients with severe kidney disease due to its renal excretion.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Valganciclovir may interact with certain antiviral medications (e.g., acyclovir and didanosine), antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin and imipenem-cilastatin), and immunosuppressive agents (e.g., tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil).

• Anti-gout medicine (e.g., lesinurad and probenecid) may also interact with it.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• Overdose of Valganciclovir may result in serious side effects such as seizures or coma. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention.

• If you forget to take a dose of Valganciclovir, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dose schedule. Do not double your dose to make up for the missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects of Valganciclovir are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience severe side effects or worsening symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• For side effects such as nausea and vomiting, taking Valganciclovir with or after meals may help.

• Drinking plenty of fluids can help manage diarrhoea.

• Resting or getting adequate sleep may alleviate fatigue.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Valganciclovir may cause dizziness or confusion, affecting your ability to drive or operate machinery.

• Avoid such activities unless you are sure about how this medicine affects you.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Valganciclovir should not be used in pregnancy as it can harm the unborn baby.

• It is not known whether valganciclovir passes into breast milk. Therefore, breastfeeding while using this medicine is not recommended.

• Always consult your doctor before using this medicine during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with kidney problems should use Valganciclovir with caution. This is because Valganciclovir is removed from the body by the kidneys, and impaired kidney function could lead to high levels of the medication in the blood.

• Patients with a history of blood cell disorders should also exercise caution while taking this medication, as valganciclovir can further decrease blood cell counts.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Maintaining a healthy diet can help strengthen the immune system, making it easier for the body to fight infections.

• Regular exercise also contributes to a stronger immune system.

• Adequate sleep is crucial for overall health, including immune function.

• Avoiding close contact with people who have active infections can help prevent the acquisition of new infections, which could further weaken the immune system.

• Regular handwashing is an important habit to prevent infection.

• Regular follow-up with your doctor is essential to monitor your condition and adjust your medication.