What is Ganciclovir ophthalmic?
Ganciclovir is an antiviral drug. The treatment of eye ulcers due to herpes is done with Ganciclovir Ophthalmic (for eyes). This medication can be used by adults and children older than 2 years. The ophthalmic form of Ganciclovir is not a treatment for herpes. It will not help treat herpes symptoms in other parts of the body. Ganciclovir ophthalmic can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Ganciclovir ophthalmic
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat.
The side effects of Ganciclovir ophthalmic can be serious. If you experience:
- Vision changes
- Eye pain can be described as burning, redness, or watering.
- A gritty feeling as if something were in your eye.
- Your eyes could be more sensitive to the light if you have watery eyes.
Some of the common side effects associated with ganciclovir eye drops include:
- Blurred vision
- Eye irritation;
- Redness, watering, and sensitivity to the light
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. Contact the FDA by dialing 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report side effects.
Similar/related drugs
valganciclovir, Valcyte, foscarnet, cidofovir, Zirgan, and Cytovene
Warnings
Do not use it other than as directed. Inform your physician of any additional medications you are taking or any allergies or medical conditions you have, including whether there are allergies.
Before you take this drug
Inform your physician immediately if you become pregnant or nursing. Ganciclovir ophthalmic is not recommended for children younger than two years of age.
How to take Ganciclovir ophthalmic?
Be sure to carefully follow all instructions or guides that come with your medication, and follow their advice and directions as directed.Follow the directions on the label. Ganciclovir Ophthalmic Gel is typically applied every 3 hours while awake (up to 5 times per day). After the ulcer has healed, the gel should be applied three times a day for seven days. Dosage instructions should be followed very closely. Before using eye medications, wash your hands. Apply the eye gel by pulling down your lower lid to create a pocket.Close your eyes for one or two minutes and relax your mind and body. Only use the prescribed number of drops. Avoid touching or directly placing the dropper onto your eyeballs. A contaminated dropper may cause serious vision problems and infection of your eye. Ask your doctor before using contact lenses. Contact lenses can increase the risk of herpes or ulcers.
If you have an eye infection or ulcer, do not wear contact lenses. Ganciclovir is not a cure for herpes, and you may get it again. You may require frequent eye exams. Store at room temperature away from moisture or heat and at a dry, cool climate. To maintain optimal results, avoid contact between moisture or heat sources and your product during storage.
Details on dosage
Usual Adult Dose for Herpes Simplex Dendritic Keratitis:
After the corneal abrasion has healed, apply 1 drop to the affected eye 3 times per day for 7 consecutive days.
Use: To treat acute herpetic ulcers (dendritic keratitis).
Usual Pediatric Dose for Herpes Simplex Dendritic Keratitis:
If you are 2 years old or older, apply 1 drop to the affected eye 5 times per day (about 3 hours a night) until the corneal ulcer is healed. Then use 1 drop every day for 7 consecutive days.
Use: To treat acute herpetic keratitis
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you are almost due for your next dose, skip the missed dosage. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once.
What happens if I overdose?
If anyone accidentally swallows the medicine, seek emergency medical care or call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
can cause blurred vision. Do not drive or engage in hazardous activities until you have determined how the ganciclovir ophthalmic will affect your vision. Avoid touching your eye. Handwashing is important to stop the spread of infections. You should only use eye drops prescribed by your doctor.
Interaction with other drug
Other drugs that you take are unlikely to affect the medicine used on your eyes. Many drugs interact. Tell your doctor all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter and prescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal remedies.
