HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with food, usually 3 to 6 times daily or as directed by your doctor. Swallow the capsules whole. Do not open, crush, or chew the capsules.Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication unless your doctor directs you otherwise.Wash your hands well after handling this drug. Avoid direct contact with the contents of the capsules (such as getting the contents on your skin, in the mucous membranes and eyes, or breathing in the powder). Avoid contact with broken or crushed capsules. If contact should occur, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water. If this medication gets in your eyes, rinse them thoroughly with plain water.Do not throw this medication in the garbage or down the drain. Special disposal is required for this medication. Contact your pharmacist for more information.The dosage and length of treatment is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.This medication works best when the amount of drug in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.Continue taking this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change your dose or stop taking it even for a short time unless directed to do so by your doctor. Changing or skipping your dose without approval from your doctor may increase the risk of side effects or make the infection worse.Do not take valganciclovir instead of ganciclovir on your own without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. The effects and the dosages of ganciclovir and valganciclovir are not equal.Keep all medical and laboratory appointments.Tell your doctor if your condition worsens (such as worsening vision).

SIDE EFFECTS: See also Warning section.Diarrhea, upset stomach, dizziness, drowsiness, unsteadiness, or shaking (tremors) may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged 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: mental/mood changes (such as confusion, hallucinations), change in the amount of urine, seizures.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.