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

Pharmacology

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

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

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

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.

See Also

• Antiviral drug
• Cytomegalovirus
• Immunosuppression