Valcyte is an antiviral medication whose main active ingredient is valganciclovir hydrochloride. It is used for the treatment of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections.

How Effective is Valcyte?

Antiviral Action

As a prodrug of ganciclovir, it is rapidly converted into ganciclovir in the body after oral administration.

Ganciclovir inhibits CMV DNA polymerase, blocks viral DNA synthesis, and thereby suppresses viral replication.

This medication exerts a significant inhibitory effect on active CMV infections.

Clinical Efficacy

When used for the induction treatment of CMV retinitis in patients with AIDS, it can effectively control the progression of retinal lesions.

During the maintenance treatment phase, it can delay the recurrence of CMV retinitis.

It has a proven effect in the prevention and treatment of CMV infections after solid organ transplantation.

Efficacy Characteristics

Common adverse reactions include myelosuppression (neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia) and gastrointestinal reactions, most of which are mild to moderate.

Caution should be exercised regarding the increased risks of carcinogenicity and teratogenicity that may be associated with long-term medication use.

Target Population for Valcyte

Target Patients

AIDS patients complicated with CMV retinitis.

Patients who need prevention or treatment of CMV infections after solid organ transplantation.

Contraindicated Populations

Patients allergic to valganciclovir or ganciclovir.

Patients with an absolute neutrophil count < 500/μL or a platelet count < 25,000/μL.

Patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 10 mL/min) who have not received hemodialysis.

Special Precautions

Dosage adjustment is required for patients with renal impairment.

Men and women of childbearing age must take effective contraceptive measures.

It is contraindicated in lactating women.

Medication Monitoring for Valcyte

Pre-Treatment Evaluation

Baseline complete blood count and renal function tests.

Confirmation of no history of drug allergy.

Monitoring During Treatment

Hematological Monitoring: Conduct blood cell count tests weekly to be alert for myelosuppression.

Renal Function Monitoring: Evaluate creatinine clearance regularly and adjust the dosage in a timely manner.

Virological Monitoring: Conduct regular ophthalmic examinations (for patients with CMV retinitis).

Principles of Dosage Adjustment

Adjust the dosage based on renal function (graded adjustment according to creatinine clearance).

When hematological toxicity occurs, consider reducing the dosage or suspending medication.