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Ganciclovir
INFORMATION ABOUT GANCICLOVIR
Ganciclovir Uses
Ganciclovir is used in the treatment of herpes labialis, Cytomegalovirus Infection, genital herpes infection, chickenpox, herpes simplex virus infections, eye infections by Herpes simplex virus and chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection.
How Ganciclovir works
Ganciclovir is an antiviral medication. It prevents the multiplication of virus in human cells. This stops the virus from producing new viruses and clears up your infection.
Common side effects of Ganciclovir
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common
Vomiting, Fever, Diarrhea, Sepsis, Anemia (low number of red blood cells), Decreased appetite, Decreased white blood cell count (lymphocytes), Infection, Sweating, Chills
CONTENT DETAILS
Written By
Dr. Subita Alagh
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Rajeev Sharma
MBA, MBBS
Last updated
24 Jul 2025 | 08:53 AM (UTC)
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Expert advice for Ganciclovir
  • Do not skip any doses and finish the full course of treatment even if you feel better.
  • Drink plenty of water while on treatment with this medicine. This helps to prevent dehydration and kidney damage.
  • If you have genital herpes, use barrier methods (condoms) for contraception and avoid sexual contact while the sores are present.
  • Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to conceive or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions for Ganciclovir
Ganciclovir is effective if used in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Do not stop taking it even if you see improvement in your condition. If you stop using Ganciclovir too early, the symptoms may return or worsen.
No, you should not stop using Ganciclovir suddenly without talking to your doctor. This is because your symptoms may worsen and your infection may return. Remember, your symptoms may improve and you may feel better before the infection is completely cleared. Stopping the medication too early could allow the spread of the infection and hence, prevent complete healing.
Use of Ganciclovir should be avoided in patients who are allergic to Ganciclovir or any of its components. However, if you are not aware of any allergy, or if you are using Ganciclovir for the first time, consult your doctor.
Keep Ganciclovir in the container or the pack it came in, tightly closed. Store it according to the instructions mentioned on the pack or label. Dispose off the unused medicine. Keep it away from children and other people to avoid any misuse.
Ganciclovir is safe if used in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Use it exactly as directed and do not skip any dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and let your doctor know if any of the side effects bother you.