Valcyte is an important antiviral drug, with valganciclovir as its active ingredient. As a prodrug of ganciclovir, it has a specific clinical application scope and strict medication standards.
What are the Indications of Valcyte?
Indications for Adult Patients
This drug is approved for the treatment of Cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in patients with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
CMV retinitis is a relatively common ocular complication among AIDS patients. Failure to treat it in a timely manner may lead to severe visual impairment or even blindness.
In the field of organ transplantation, Valcyte is widely used to prevent CMV disease in patients who have undergone kidney, heart, and kidney - pancreas transplants and are at high risk (CMV - seropositive donors / CMV - seronegative recipients).
Indications for Pediatric Patients
For pediatric patients, the indication of Valcyte is limited to prophylactic use.
It is applicable to kidney transplant patients aged 4 months to 16 years and heart transplant patients aged 1 month to 16 years, and both groups of patients must be at high risk of developing CMV disease.
Specifications and Characteristics of Valcyte
Tablet Specifications
Valcyte tablets are available in a 450 - milligram strength, presented as convex oval tablets coated with a pink film.
The marking "VGC" is engraved on one side of the tablet, and the marking "450" is printed on the other side to ensure the accuracy of the dosage administered.
Oral Solution Characteristics
Valcyte oral solution is supplied as a white to off - yellow powder, which can be reconstituted into a colorless to brownish - yellow solution.
The concentration of the reconstituted solution is 50 milligrams of valganciclovir free base per milliliter, and each bottle can provide approximately 100 milliliters of the solution.
Storage Methods for Valcyte
Storage Conditions for Tablets
Valcyte tablets should be stored at room temperature ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), with a temporary allowable deviation to the range of 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F).
Storage Requirements for Oral Solution
The powder of the oral solution should be stored at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C before reconstitution.
Once the powder is reconstituted into a solution, it must be immediately stored in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F).
The reconstituted solution has a validity period of 49 days. This storage period must be strictly followed to avoid using expired drugs.
Special attention should be paid that the oral solution must not be frozen to prevent changes in the properties of the drug.
Safety Guidelines for Drug Handling
During the use of the tablets, breaking or crushing them is strictly prohibited.
It is recommended to wear disposable gloves when reconstituting and using the oral solution.
In case of accidental contact with the drug powder or solution, immediately wash the affected skin thoroughly with soap and water. If it comes into contact with the eyes, rinse them fully with clean water.
