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Valcyte

Generic name: valganciclovir [val-gan-SYE-kloe-veer]
Drug class: purine nucleosides

What is Valcyte?

Valcyte is a medicine used by adults to help prevent the development of infection with cytomegalovirus (CMV), which can occur following the procedure of an organ transplant (heart, pancreas, or kidney). It is also employed to combat CMV infections in the eyes in patients suffering from acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Valcyte is a prescription drug for children aged between four months and up to 16 years old in order to stop CMV infection following an organ transplant. The medicine is also prescribed for children aged 1 month up to 16 years old to help prevent CMV disease following an organ transplant.

Valcyte does not cure CMV; however, it may aid in controlling the infection.Valcyte is also used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

Side effects of Valcyte

Contact a medical professional immediately. Get medical attention immediately if you notice symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of your lips, face, or tongue.

Infections that are serious can occur in the course of treatment with Valcyte. Call your doctor immediately if you notice signs of infection, like:

  • Fever, chills, tiredness, flu-like symptoms;
  • Feeling lightheaded or sluggish
  • Mouth sores, skin sores;
  • Light skin tones; cold hands and feet cold hands and feet
  • Easily bleeding or bruising (nose, mouth, vagina, rectum, or nose).

Make sure to contact your doctor at any time if you suffer from:

  • A seizure (convulsions);
  • Discomfort or burning sensation during urination;
  • Swelling or pain around your transplanted organ
  • Kidney problems: little or no urinary tract infections; difficult or painful urine; swelling in your ankles or feet; and feeling exhausted or sluggish.

Kidney issues are more likely in people who are older.

Common adverse effects of Valcyte could include:

  • Frequent chills, fatigue, and fatigue Mouth sores, skin rashes, bleeding, bruising that's not usual, and feeling lightheaded or sluggish
  • Discomfort or burning sensation during urination;
  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
  • Headache;
  • Tremors;
  • Sleep problems (insomnia);
  • Signs of a cold, like nasal stuffiness, sneezing, and a sore throat.

This list does not encompass every possible adverse reaction of Lyrica. Others could happen. Consult your physician for advice regarding medical effects. You can report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Do not take this medication if you are expecting. Valcyte could result in a birth defect. Inform your doctor immediately in the event of a pregnancy occurring when both the mother and father are taking Valcyte.

Utilize effective contraception to avoid pregnancy, regardless of whether you're a male or female. Use birth control for a minimum of 30 days after the most recent dose of the drug valganciclovir in the case of females and a minimum of 90 days following your last dose if you are a male.

Consult your physician right now if you notice symptoms of illness like fatigue, chills, fever, flu-related symptoms, skin sores, mouth sores, pale skin, bleeding, unusual swelling, shortness of breath, or feeling lightheaded.

Before you take this drug

This medicine is for you if you're allergic to Ganciclovir and Valcyte.

Utilizing Valcyte can increase your chance of developing certain kinds of cancer. Talk to your doctor about this possibility.

Speak to your doctor if you have ever suffered from:

  • Renal disease (or if you're taking dialysis);
  • Low blood cell count low blood cell counts
  • Radiation treatment.

Valcyte may harm an unborn child and cause a birth defect in the case that the father or mother is taking this medication.

  • If you're female, do not use Valcyte if expecting. It is possible that you will need an unconfirmed pregnancy test prior to beginning this treatment. Utilize effective birth control methods to avoid pregnancy while taking this medicine and for a minimum of 30 days after the last dose.
  • If you're male, use effective birth control if you are a partner with someone who is likely to become pregnant. Continue using birth control for a minimum of 90 days after the last dose.
  • Inform your doctor immediately. If you become pregnant during the time that both the mother and father are taking Valcyte,

This medication can impact fertility (the ability to have kids) for both men and women. But it is crucial to use birth control in order to avoid pregnancy since Valcyte could harm an unborn child.

Women suffering from HIV or AIDS shouldn't give birth to a baby. Even if your child is born with no HIV, the virus could be transmitted to your baby through breast milk.Don't give the medication to an infant without a medical recommendation.

How to take Valcyte?

Follow the directions on the label of your prescription and read the medication guide or instructions sheets. Make sure you use the medication precisely as directed.Take Valcyte along with food.The tablets for Valcyte are intended to be designed for both children and adults; however, this liquid is not suitable for children.

Then shake up your oral suspension (liquid). Use the measuring device supplied (not an ordinary spoon).Do not break or crush the Valcyte tablet. The medication from broken or crushed tablets could be harmful when it is absorbed into your eyes or onto the surface of your face. If this occurs, you should wash your skin with soap and water or wash your eyes in water.

When you are taking Valcyte, it is possible that you might require regular blood tests.Eyes should be checked every four to six weeks while you're taking Valcyte for CMV. Your doctor might ask you to undergo eye examinations more often.Utilize Valcyte frequently to reap the maximum benefits. Make sure you refill your prescription before the expiration date of your medication.

Keep the Valcyte tablet in a cool, dry place, away from heat and moisture.Storage Valcyte the liquid inside the refrigerator. Don't freeze it. Get rid of any items that are not used after a period of 49 days.

What happens if I miss the dose?

You should take the medication as quickly as you are able, but do not take any missed doses if it's close to the time of the next dose. Don't take two doses at a time.

What happens if I overdose?

Get medical attention in an emergency or contact the Poison Help Line toll-free at 1-800-222-1222.

What should be avoided?

Avoid being around those who are ill or suffer from infections. Contact your physician immediately whenever you begin to show symptoms of an infection. Beware of activities that could increase the chances of sustaining injuries or bleeding.Avoid driving or engaging in hazardous activities until you understand the effects of valcyte on your body. The way you react could be impaired.

This medicine won't stop your illness from spreading. Don't engage in sexual activity that is not protected or share toothbrushes and razors. Consult your physician on how to stop HIV transmission during sexual contact. Sharing needles for medicine or drugs is not a good idea.

Interaction with other drugs

Valcyte may affect your kidneys, particularly in conjunction with certain medications to treat osteoporosis, cancer, infections, organ transplant rejection, digestive problems, high blood pressure, or arthritis pain (including Advil, Motrin, and Aleve).

Other medications can affect Valcyte's effects, including medications that are prescribed and available over the counter, vitamins, and herbal products. Discuss with your doctor all the other medications you are taking.

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Prescription only

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