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Valcyte is the brand name for valganciclovir and is available as an oral tablet and solution.

Valcyte is available as 450 mg oral tablet and a 50 mg/ml oral solution.

Valcyte is an antiviral that is used for the:

• Prevention of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection after organ transplant
• Treatment of CMV eye infection in adults with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)

Valcyte is metabolized (broken down) by the body to an active antiviral medication called ganciclovir. Ganciclovir stops an enzyme called DNA polymerase. Without this enzyme, the virus can’t make copies of itself.

Valcyte is dosed as follows:

• Treatment of CMV eye infection Adults: The typical dose is to take 900 mg by mouth twice daily for 3 weeks. After that, your provider will typically lower your dose to 900 mg by mouth once daily.
• Prevention of CMV infection after transplant Adults (kidney, heart, or kidney-pancreas transplant): The typical dose is to take 900 mg by mouth once daily, starting within 10 days of organ transplant. You’ll continue to take this medication for 100 to 200 days after your transplant, or as directed by your provider.
• Children (kidney or heart transplant): Your child’s provider will determine your child’s dose based on their height, weight, age, and kidney health. Typically, your child will start this medication within 10 days of organ transplant. They’ll continue taking it for 100 to 200 days after their transplant, or as directed by their provider

Your dose of Valcyte might be different depending on your kidney health.

Valcyte is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you.

Common side effects of Valcyte:

• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Nausea
• Headache
• Low blood cell counts
• Vomiting
• Difficulty sleeping
• Stomach pain
• Labs suggesting kidney problems

Serious side effects are rare with Valcyte. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.

• Retinal detachment: sudden changes in vision, floaters, flashes of light
• Blood and bone marrow problems
• Kidney injury: urinating less often than usual, swelling in your feet, ankles, or hands, unexplained weight gain

The following medications may interact with Valcyte:

• Imipenem-cilastatin: Seizures were reported in patients receiving
• Valcyte and imipenem-cilastatin. Concomitant use is not recommended unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks
• Cyclosporine or amphotericin B: When coadministered with Valcyte, the risk of nephrotoxicity may be increased
• Monitor renal function
• Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF): When coadministered with Valcyte, the risk of hematological and renal toxicity may be increased. Monitor for ganciclovir and MMF toxicity
• Other drugs associated with myelosuppression or nephrotoxicity: Due to potential for increased toxicity, consider for concomitant use with Valcyte only if the potential benefits are judged to outweigh the risks
• Didanosine: Valcyte coadministered with didanosine may increase didanosine levels. Monitor for didanosine toxicity (e.g., pancreatitis)
• Probenecid: May increase Valcyte levels. Monitor for evidence of Valcyte toxicity

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Based on animal data, Valcyte may cause fetal harm. You should talk to your healthcare provider before taking this medication if you are pregnant. Valcyte should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

• Valganciclovir