valganciclovir Health Article

How should I take valganciclovir?

Valganciclovir should be used exactly as your doctor has prescribed it for you. Do not use more of the medication than recommended. Do not take the medication for longer than your doctor has prescribed.

Take each dose with a full glass of water. Take valganciclovir with food. Take this medication for as many days as it has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated.

It is very important to take this medicine at the same time each day. To best treat your condition, you should not miss any doses.

Do not crush or break a valganciclovir tablet. Do not use a tablet that has been accidentally broken. The medicine from a broken tablet can be dangerous if it gets in your eyes, mouth, or nose, or on your skin. If skin contact occurs, wash the area with soap and water or rinse the eyes thoroughly with plain water. If you must handle a broken tablet, ask your doctor or pharmacist how to dispose of the tablet safely.

You should have your eyes checked at least every 4 to 6 weeks while you are using valganciclovir. Your doctor may want you to have eye exams more often.

Valganciclovir can lower the blood cells in your body that help you fight infections. This can make it easier for you to bleed from an injury or get sick from being around others who are ill. To be sure your blood cells do not get too low, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Store valganciclovir at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Symptoms of a valganciclovir overdose may include seizure (convulsions), kidney failure (urinating more or less than usual, blood in the urine, swelling or numbness in your hands or feet, pain in your lower back or sides), or signs of liver damage (yellowing of the skin or eyes, severe and sudden stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting).

What should I avoid while taking valganciclovir?

If you have AIDS, follow your doctor's instructions with respect to high-risk activities such as unprotected sex and the sharing of needles.

Use birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using valganciclovir, whether you are a man or a woman. Valganciclovir use by either parent can cause birth defects. If you are a man, use a condom to keep from causing a pregnancy while you are taking valganciclovir. Continue using condoms for at least 90 days after you stop taking valganciclovir. Valganciclovir can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.