Ganglion cells

Ganciclovir Sodium is an antiviral medication used primarily in the treatment of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections.

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

Ganciclovir Sodium is a synthetic analogue of 2'-deoxy-guanosine, and viruses treated with ganciclovir are inhibited from further replication. After the initial phosphorylation by a viral kinase, ganciclovir is further phosphorylated to its active triphosphate form by cellular kinases. This active form is a competitive inhibitor of deoxyguanosine triphosphate (dGTP) incorporation into DNA and preferentially inhibits viral DNA polymerases more than cellular DNA polymerases.

Medical Uses[edit | edit source]

Ganciclovir Sodium is used for the treatment of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections, which can be life-threatening for individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or organ transplant recipients. It is also used for the prevention of CMV disease in high-risk transplant recipients.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Common side effects of Ganciclovir Sodium include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and neutropenia. Serious side effects may include bone marrow suppression, liver problems, and anaphylaxis.

Dosage[edit | edit source]

The dosage of Ganciclovir Sodium varies depending on the type and severity of the CMV infection, as well as the patient's kidney function. It is typically administered intravenously.