Ganciclovir Injection

The manufacturer warns that ganciclovir injection should only be used for treatment and prevention of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in people with certain diseases because the medication may cause severe side effects and there is currently not enough information to support safety and effectiveness in other groups of people.

🔔 Why is this medication prescribed?

Ganciclovir injection is used to treat cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis (eye infection that can cause blindness) in people whose immune system is not working normally, including those people who have acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). It is also used to prevent CMV disease in transplant recipients at risk for CMV infection. Ganciclovir injection is in a class of medications called antivirals. It works by stopping the spread of CMV in the body.

🔔 How should this medicine be used?

Ganciclovir injection comes as a powder to be mixed with liquid and injected intravenously (into a vein). It is usually given every 12 hours. The length of treatment depends on your general health, the type of infection you have, and how well you respond to the medication. Your doctor will tell you how long to use ganciclovir injection.

You may receive ganciclovir injection in a hospital, or you may administer the medication at home. If you will be receiving ganciclovir injection at home, your healthcare provider will show you how to use the medication. Be sure that you understand these directions, and ask your healthcare provider if you have any questions.

🔔 Other uses for this medicine

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.