What does it do?

Ganciclovir is used to treat and prevent viral infections caused by cytomegalovirus (CMV).

Before you start

• Tell your doctor if you have blood or kidney problems or have ever had a seizure.
• Ganciclovir is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Women receiving ganciclovir should use effective contraception (eg oral contraceptive pill or condoms) during treatment. Men receiving ganciclovir should use barrier contraception (eg condoms) during the course of ganciclovir and for 3 months afterwards.
• Ganciclovir can affect fertility in both men and women – discuss with your doctor.

How is it given?

Ganciclovir is given as a slow infusion into a vein.

What if you forget a dose?

Ganciclovir will be given to you by a health professional. If you are unable to attend an appointment, contact your health professional as soon as possible.

Can you take other medicines?

Some medicines available without a prescription may react with ganciclovir including:

• trimethoprim

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Symptoms of allergy including: skin rash, itching, swelling, trouble breathing Reduced number of blood cells that fight infections or help your blood to clot - symptoms include: fever, chills, sore throat or generally feeling unwell, or easy or unusual bruising or bleeding Changes in vision Seizures	Tell your doctor immediately
Unusual behaviour or thinking Confusion, drowsiness or weakness Tiredness, dizziness, pale skin	Tell your doctor
Numbness or tingling of the fingers or toes Headache, trouble sleeping, tremor Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite Irritation or pain at injection site	Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• You will need regular blood tests while taking ganciclovir to monitor its effects on your blood and kidneys.