ganciclovir implant - intraocular, Vitrasert

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GENERIC NAME: GANCICLOVIR IMPLANT - INTRAOCULAR (gan-SYE-klo-veer)

BRAND NAME(S): Vitrasert

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used in patients with AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) to treat a serious infection of the eye called CMV (cytomegalovirus) retinitis. It works by stopping the growth of the virus. This medication is not a cure for CMV retinitis, but it helps to slow the course of the disease, which can lead to visual changes or loss of vision.

HOW TO USE: This medication is inserted into the affected eye(s) by a surgeon. Follow all instructions on what to do before and after surgery. The implant is designed to slowly release the medication into the eye over 5 to 8 months. The doctor will decide when the implant will need to be replaced.Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve, if it worsens, or if you have signs of the CMV affecting other parts of the body (e.g., cough, fever, shortness of breath, stomach/abdominal pain, diarrhea, leg pain/weakness, headaches, confusion).

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.