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Valcyte |
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What is Valcyte and why is it prescribed? Valcyte tablets are used in the treatment of an eye disease called cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis, one of the many infections that take hold when the immune system is undermined by AIDS. Valcyte is very similar to the CMV medication Cytovene (ganciclovir). To avoid an overdose, it is essential to take only the prescribed number of Valcyte tablets each day. How should you take Valcyte? Follow your doctors directions for taking Valcyte. Valcyte is usually taken twice a day for the first three weeks, then once a day. It should be taken with food. Be careful to avoid breaking Valcyte tablets. If a tablet does break, keep the pieces out of direct contact with skin, eyes, and mouth. If contact is unavoidable, wash thoroughly with soap and water and rinse the eyes with plain water. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Store Valcyte at room temperature. Are there any Valcyte side effects? Valcyte side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Valcyte side effects may include abdominal pain, agitation, anemia and other blood abnormalities, bleeding problems, burning or prickling feeling, confusion, convulsions, diarrhea, fever, hallucinations, headache, infection, insomnia, nausea, psychosis, reduced kidney function, retinal detachment, vision problems, and vomiting. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Valcyte? If Valcyte is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Valcyte with Didanosine (Videx), Mycophenolate mofetil (CellCept), Probenecid, or Zidovudine (Retrovir). Are there any special warnings about Valcyte? Valcyte may cause low blood counts. You will need to have frequent blood tests to monitor for abnormalities. Your doctor will be especially cautious if you have pre-existing blood problems or if you are taking other medications that can reduce blood counts. Valcyte can also affect the kidneys, so your doctor will check them frequently. You should be aware that Valcyte is also considered a potential cancer-causing agent, although this possible effect has not been studied. Valcyte can diminish fertility in both men and women. It may also prove harmful to a developing baby. Women should use birth control while taking Valcyte, and men should use condoms during treatment and for 90 days thereafter. Convulsions, sedation, dizziness, weakness, and confusion have been reported with the use of Valcyte tablets. If any of these symptoms occur, do not drive, operate machinery, or perform any other task that requires you to be alert. Valcyte is not a cure for CMV retinitis and your disease may worsen during or following treatment. You should have an eye exam at least every 4 to 6 weeks while being treated with Valcyte tablets. |
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