Not medical advice. This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine. Ganciclovir requires a valid prescription.
Ganciclovir
Generic Name: GANCICLOVIR SODIUM
Ganciclovir Injection Ganciclovir Injection contains ganciclovir, in the form of the sodium salt for intravenous injection.
Data last updated: 30 March 2026 · Source: openFDA.gov, DailyMed (NLM/NIH)
Common Brand Names in India:
What is Ganciclovir Used For?
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in immunocompromised adult patients
How Does It Work?
Binding to plasma proteins was 1% to 2% over ganciclovir concentrations of 0.5 and 51 mcg/mL.
Dosage & Administration
- DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Ganciclovir Injection is administered only intravenously. 2.1 Dosage in Adult Patients with Normal Renal Function Treatment of CMV retinitis Induction: 5 mg/kg (given intravenously at a constant rate over 1 hour) every 12 hours for 14 to 21 days.
- Maintenance: 5 mg/kg (given intravenously at a constant rate over 1 hour) once daily for 7 days per week, or 6 mg/kg once daily for 5 days per week.
- Prevention of CMV disease in transplant recipients Induction: 5 mg/kg (given intravenously at a constant rate over 1 hour) every 12 hours for 7 to 14 days.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention)
Warnings & Precautions
- Renal Impairment: Increased serum creatinine levels have been observed with the use of Ganciclovir Injection, particularly in elderly patients and transplant recipients receiving concomitant nephrotoxic drugs.
- Ganciclovir Injection should also be used with caution in patients with pre-existing cytopenias and in patients receiving myelosuppressive drugs or irradiation.
Who Should NOT Take This?
- Ganciclovir Injection Ganciclovir Injection is contraindicated in patients who have experienced a clinically significant hypersensitivity reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to ganciclovir, valganciclovir, or any component of the formulation.
- Hypersensitivity to ganciclovir or valganciclovir. ( 4 )
Drug Interactions
Ganciclovir may interact with the following medicines. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Storage Instructions
Storage Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].
Speak to a general physician on Zospital
Consult a general physician on Zospital before starting Ganciclovir. Verified Indian specialists available for in-clinic and online consultations.
Other Antivirals Medicines
Sources: openFDA.gov · dailymed.nlm.nih.gov · nlm.nih.gov (RxNorm). Information is for educational purposes only. Consult a doctor before use.
FAQS
Ganciclovir – Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Ganciclovir, its uses, dosage and safety.
Ganciclovir is commonly prescribed in India for: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in immunocompromised adult patients. Always confirm the indication with a registered medical practitioner before starting any course.
Ganciclovir is sold in India under brand names such as Zirgan, Ganciclovir. You can also find it on online pharmacies like 1mg, Pharmeasy and Apollo Pharmacy.
Ganciclovir is a prescription-only (Schedule H) medicine in India. You will need a valid prescription from a registered MBBS / MD doctor to purchase it from a licensed pharmacy.
Common side effects of Ganciclovir can include: Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Constipation, Headache, Dizziness, Fatigue, Dry mouth. Less common but serious side effects can include: Serious, Anaphylactic, Agranulocytosis, Seizure, Stevens-johnson. Stop the medicine and contact your doctor immediately if any of these appear.
Binding to plasma proteins was 1% to 2% over ganciclovir concentrations of 0.5 and 51 mcg/mL.
Ganciclovir can interact with: Injection, Clinical, Concentration, Coadministration, Cyclosporine, Mycophenolate. Tell your doctor about every medicine, supplement and herbal product you take — including ayurvedic and homeopathy preparations — before starting Ganciclovir.
Indian guidelines often recommend lower starting doses of Ganciclovir for patients above 60-65, since kidney and liver function decline with age. A doctor should review the dose, especially if the patient already takes BP, sugar or heart medicines.
Pregnancy safety of Ganciclovir depends on the trimester and individual case. Indian gynaecologists usually avoid Category C/D drugs unless benefit clearly outweighs risk. Speak to your obstetrician before taking Ganciclovir during pregnancy or while planning conception.
Prices in India typically range from ₹30 – ₹500 per strip / vial depending on brand. Generic versions tend to cost 30-60% less than branded ones, and Jan Aushadhi outlets often stock the lowest-priced equivalents. Check 1mg or Pharmeasy for live MRP.
If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one — never double up. Frequent missed doses reduce Ganciclovir's effectiveness, so consider setting a reminder or speaking to your doctor about a simpler schedule.
You can book an in-person or online consultation with a verified Indian specialist on Zospital — visit the doctor directory at https://zospital.com/doctor to find one near you.
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.