Valganciclovir
Uses of Valganciclovir
Valganciclovir is commonly used to treat Cytomegaloviral Retinitis in AIDS Patients and Prophylaxis of Cytomegaloviral Infections in Immunocompromised Patients.
How Valganciclovir Works
Valganciclovir is an antiviral which will be converted into ganciclovir and phosphorylated into a triphosphate form by viral enzymes. This form will incorporate into the adenosine bases of viral DNA subsequently prevent viral DNA synthesis and their activities.
Side Effects of Valganciclovir
Abdominal pain, Diarrhea, Nausea, Vomiting, Headache, Insomnia, Allergy reaction, Decreased appetite, Visual disturbances, Cough, Shortness of breath, Liver dysfunction, Muscle/Joint pain, Fever, Tiredness
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Valganciclovir dosage has to be adjusted according to the creatinine clearance of patients with kidney impairment. It is not advisable to be used in patients with creatinine clearance less than 10ml/min and patients requiring haemodialysis. Please consult your doctor.
Alcohol Safe
There is no known interaction between alcohol and Valganciclovir when used concomitantly.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Animal studies have shown reproductive toxicities caused by its active metabolite, Ganciclovir but the safety profile of Valganciclovir has not been established in pregnant women. Thus, Valganciclovir is not advisable to be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. Please consult your doctor.
Driving Generally Safe
There are no studies of Valganciclovir on the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.
Liver Use With Care
The safety profile of Valganciclovir has not been established in patients with liver impairment. Thus, caution use has to be practised in such patients.
Lactation Not Advisable
Animal studies have shown that its active metabolite, Ganciclovir is excreted in the milk but it is not known in human milk. Thus, breastfeeding is not recommended for patients who are receiving Valganciclovir treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
