Medicines
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Valcyte
Valganciclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections. It is a prodrug of ganciclovir, meaning it is converted to ganciclovir in the body. Ganciclovir inhibits viral DNA replication by competing with deoxyguanosine triphosphate for binding to CMV DNA polymerase. This action prevents the virus from reproducing and spreading.
For the treatment of cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and prevention of CMV disease in solid organ transplant recipients.
Valganciclovir can cause serious side effects, including blood disorders (neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia), birth defects, and cancer. It should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing blood disorders or kidney problems.
Outcome:
Increased risk of didanosine toxicity
Mechanism:
Competition for renal excretion
Outcome:
Increased risk of neutropenia and thrombocytopenia
Mechanism:
Additive myelosuppression
Outcome:
Potential for increased toxicity
Mechanism:
Similar mechanisms of action
Most likely new formulation: Extended-release oral formulation (2025, 75% confidence)
Based on current usage trends and clinical trial data, there is a 90% likelihood that Valganciclovir will remain a first-line treatment for CMV infections in immunocompromised patients.
Antiviral
Guanine nucleoside analogue