What is Valcyte?
Valcyte is approved for the treatment of cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in adult patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Valcyte is approved for the prevention of CMV infection in CMV-negative adults and children (birth to 18 years) who have undergone a solid organ donation from a CMV-positive donor.
Valcyte uses
Valganciclovir is a medication that is used to treat viral infections. It is converted in the body to ganciclovir, the active version of the medication. It is used to protect persons who have received organ transplants against sickness caused by a virus called cytomegalovirus (CMV). CMV infection can result in catastrophic diseases throughout the body, including CMV retinitis, which can result in blindness. Valganciclovir inhibits the CMV virus’s development. It aids in the prevention of infection spreading to other bodily parts. Additionally, valganciclovir is used to treat CMV retinitis in patients with severe HIV illness (AIDS). This drug aids in the treatment of CMV retinitis and significantly reduces the risk of blindness. Valganciclovir is not an antiviral agent that can be used to treat CMV infection. Even with treatment, some individuals may experience worsening CMV retinitis. It is critical to visit your doctor on a regular basis to have your eyes examined.
How does it work?
Valganciclovir is a diastereomeric combination of ganciclovir and valganciclovir. Following injection, hepatic and intestinal esterases quickly convert these diastereomers to ganciclovir. Ganciclovir is initially phosphorylated to the monophosphate form in cytomegalovirus (CMV)-infected cells by viral protein kinase and then further phosphorylated by cellular kinases to the triphosphate form. Intracellularly, this triphosphate form is progressively degraded. Phosphorylation is viral kinase-dependent and happens preferentially in virus-infected cells. Ganciclovir’s antiviral effectiveness is a result of its inhibitory effect on viral DNA synthesis. Ganciclovir triphosphate is integrated into the DNA strand, taking the place of a large number of adenosine nucleotides. This inhibits DNA synthesis by impeding the formation of phosphodiester bridges, therefore weakening the strand. Ganciclovir is more effective at inhibiting viral DNA polymerases than cellular polymerase, and chain elongation restart once ganciclovir is withdrawn.
Valcyte Dosage
In patients with normal renal function, for the therapy of CMV retinitis Adults: Induction: A dose of 900 mg (two 450 mg tablets) twice daily for 21 days is indicated for patients with active CMV retinitis. Prolonged induction therapy may result in an increased risk of bone marrow toxicity.
Following induction therapy or in individuals with dormant CMV retinitis, the suggested maintenance dose is 900 mg (two 450 mg tablets) once daily with food. Patients with worsening retinitis may require another course of induction therapy. Individuals should select the duration of maintenance treatment.
To prevent CMV infection in patients undergoing heart, kidney, or kidney-pancreas transplantation, the recommended dose is 900 mg (two 450 mg tablets) once day with food beginning within 10 days following transplantation and continuing for 100 days. Prophylaxis may be continued for up to 200 days after transplantation. The recommended dose for individuals who have had a heart or kidney-pancreas transplant is 900 mg (two 450 mg tablets) once day with food beginning within 10 days of transplantation and continuing for 100 days following transplantation.
Administration
- With food, take Valcyte.
- While Valcyte pills are suitable for both adults and children, this medication liquid is intended for use solely by children.
- The oral suspension should be shaken (liquid). Utilize the provided measuring instrument to determine a dose (not a kitchen spoon).
- A Valcyte tablet should not be crushed or broken. If medication from a crushed or broken pill gets into your eyes or on your skin, it can be extremely hazardous. If this occurs, thoroughly cleanse your skin with soap and water and rinse your eyes with water.
Valcyte side effects
Valcyte frequently causes the following adverse effects:
- Diarrhea
- Stomach upsets
- Dizziness
- Unbalanced or clumsy,
- Drowsiness
- Unsteadiness
- Tremors (tremors)
Drug interaction
Valcyte (valganciclovir) interaction reports with the following medications.
- Amlodipine
- Aspirin
- Azithromycin
- Bactrim (sulfamethoxazole / trimethoprim / trimethoprim / sulfadoxine / trimethoprim / trimethoprim
- Cellexec (mycophenolate mofetil)
- Furosemide
- Gabapentin
- Oxide de magnésium
- Metoprolol
- Multivitamin
- Mofetil mycophenolate
- Terrible (mycophenolic acid)
- Nystatin
- Omeprazole
- Pantoprazole
- Prednisone
- Grapheme (tacrolimus)
- Etonix (pantoprazole)
- Tacrolimus
- D-calcium (cholecalciferol)
Precautions/ safety information
There is a risk of hematologic toxicity; CBCs and platelets should be monitored frequently, especially in neonates, patients with renal failure, and those with a history of leukopenia caused by ganciclovir or other nucleoside analogues, with a baseline ANC of 1000cells/microliter. Not advised for ANC 500 cells/microliter, hemoglobin 8g/dL, and platelets 25,000 cells/microliter. Cytopenias pre-existing or a history of cytopenic reactions to other medications, chemicals, or irradiation Fertility impairment, fetal toxicity, and cancer are all possible side effects. Disturbance of the kidneys Eye and renal function should be monitored. Continue to drink plenty of water. Avoid direct contact with skin or mucous membranes after handling broken tabs, powder, or oral soln. Ganciclovir should not be substituted mg for mg. Elderly. Pregnancy: before to initiating treatment, rule out the possibility of pregnancy. During and for at least 30 days (females) or 90 days (males) following therapy, use effective contraception. Not advised for nursing mothers.
Storage
Refrigerate solution at 36°–46°F (2°–8°C) for a maximum of 49 days. Maintain a constant temperature.
Contraindications
Valcyte should not be used if you have any of the following:
- Are hypersensitive to valganciclovir, ganciclovir, or any of the medication’s components
- Acyclovir or valacyclovir allergies
Pregnancy or lactation
Valcyte has the potential to cause harm to an unborn child. Pregnant women should not take this drug. Prevent pregnancy by using efficient birth control.
