Ganciclovir (Na)
Also known as: Gamciclovir Sodique, Natri Ganciclovirum
Ganciclovir (Na) is antiviral agent. Ganciclovir (Na) is a guanosine analog. Ganciclovir (Na) is active against herpes simplex virus, varicella zoster and cytomegalovirus. its activity against cytomegalovirus is up to 100 times greater than that of acyclovir.
Primary Characteristics
Ganciclovir (Na) is also known as Gamciclovir Sodique, Natri Ganciclovirum.
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Guanine Salt.
It belongs to DNA polymerase inhibitor pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action. It is also classified under Antiviral Agents .
Molecular Weight: 277 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 230 · Non-proprietary name: Ganciclovir (Na) · pH: 9.

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Ganciclovir (Na) has an oral bioavailability is 4.95% (±2.35%).
Distribution: Ganciclovir (Na) has a volume of distribution is 1.17 l/kg ± 0.54 l/kg. plasma protein binding is <2%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via Insignificant, plasma half-life is 0.76hr (alpha phase) 3.60 (beta phase), renal excretion is >73% ± 31%.
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Indications
Ganciclovir (Na) is primarily indicated in conditions like Cytomegalovirus infection (risk of relapse or retinitis), Cytomegalovirus infections, Local infiltration, Prophylaxis in bone marrow transplant recipient.
Contraindications
Ganciclovir (Na) is contraindicated in conditions like Neutropenia, Thrombocytopenia, Pregnancy, Hypersensitivity to the drug, Breast feeding, Severe infections, see instruction.
Dosage
Ganciclovir (Na)'s dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 4.5 mg | 4.5 mg | Every 8h | Intraoccular implants | By Intraoccular implant release in to viterous cavity at a rate of 1.4 mcg per hour |
| 5 mg/kg | 5 mg/kg | Every 12h | IV | Treatment (For 14-21 days) |
| 5 mg/kg | 5 mg/kg | Every 24h | IV | Maintenance (Until adequate recovery of immunity) |
| 1 g | 1 g | Every 8h | Oral | For 5-8 months but its oral absorption is poor |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 0 – 0 | — | — | Safety not established | |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 0 – 0 | — | — | Safety not established | |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Ganciclovir (Na) in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Gonadal toxicity , Renal impairment .
Ganciclovir (Na) produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Thrombocytopenia , Neutropenia . Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Ganciclovir (Na) are Neutropenia .
Ganciclovir (Na) is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Abnormal LFT, Abnormal mentation, Anemia, Burning sensation, Confusion, Diarrhea, Eosinophilia, Fever, Local pain, Nausea and vomiting, Phlebitis , Rashes , Seizures and convulsions, Tingling .
Warnings / Precautions
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.6.5.1 — Herpes and cytomegalovirus infection