ganciclovir-injection (cont.)
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: blood disorders, liver disease, kidney disease, any allergies. Caution is advised if this drug is used in the elderly, as they may have decreased kidney function which can cause ganciclovir to build up in their bloodstream. Increased side effects may result. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this drug. It is recommended that men and women use birth control measures while taking this medication since birth defects have been noted in animal studies. Men should use a barrier contraceptive (latex condom) during and for at least 90 days after taking this drug. Because it is not known if this medication appears in breast milk, consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Inform your doctor about all the medicines you use (both prescription and nonprescription). This medication should be used under strict supervision by persons taking zidovudine (AZT) since the combination can result in severe blood disorders. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose could be expected to be extensions of symptoms noted in Side Effects section.
NOTES: This medication is not a cure for CMV infections, so symptoms may continue. Regular eye examinations are recommended to evaluate the effectiveness of this therapy. Use of this medication in children has been limited. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Elderly persons should use this medication cautiously and have periodic kidney tests to see if dosage adjustments are necessary.
MISSED DOSE: Do not double dose if missed; check with your MD.
STORAGE: Store vial at room temperature away form sunlight. Store reconstituted vial at room temperature. Do not refrigerate. Store the final intravenous solution in the refrigerator. Warm to room temperature before use and check expiration date. Do not freeze.
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2005
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