Drugs & Vitamins

Active Ingredients: Ganciclovir Ophthalmic
Other Names: Ganciclovir Eye Implant, Vitrasert Ophthalmic Implant
Drug Class: Anti-virals
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: No
Product Images & Descriptions:

What is/are Ganciclovir Ophthalmic Insert? (Back to top)
GANCICLOVIR is an antiviral. It is used to treat cytomegalovirus (CMV) eye infections in patients with AIDS. This medicine is not a cure for CMV. The implant will only treat the eye it has been placed into. You may need treatment for other parts of the body infected by CMV. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• bleeding problems
• other infections
• low blood counts, like low white cell, platelet, or red cell counts
• an unusual or allergic reaction to ganciclovir, acyclovir, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
This medicine is placed in position by a surgical procedure. It is done by a trained surgeon in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 9 years old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
This does not apply.

What may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)
Interactions are not expected.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• bleeding in the eye
• cataract formation
• detached retina
• eye pain
• prolonged changes in vision

• swelling, pain, and inflammation of the eye
• temporary changes in vision

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. Discuss any new symptoms with your doctor. Have your eyes checked every 4 to 6 weeks or as directed.

After the implant is placed in your eye, you may find you cannot see as well as you could before the procedure. This change should be for only a short time while you heal from the eye surgery. Tell your doctor if your vision does not get better in 2 to 4 weeks.

Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information.

Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Last Updated:September 10, 2007

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