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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).

SIDE EFFECTS: A temporary decrease in vision will usually occur after the surgery and last 2 to 4 weeks. If this effect persists or worsens, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: other vision changes/loss, eye pain/swelling/redness, bleeding in or around the eye.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

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.