Cymevene

What is it?

An antiviral preparation which is a DNA polyinerase inhibitor available as a powder in vials for reconstitution and injection containing 500mg ganciclovir. Also, CYMEVENE CAPSULES, available in two different strengths; green, containing 250mg of ganciclovir and yellow/green containing 500mg. All are marked with two lines, strength and CV.

Medical Uses

Cymevene injection, CMV disease (serious infections caused by cytomegalovirus in AIDS patients and those with reduced immunity). Cymevene capsules, prevention of CMV disease in patients who have received a liver or kidney transplant, maintenance treatment of retinitis (eye disease) caused by CMV in AIDS patients.

Dosage

Adults, injection, 5mg per kg of body weight given by intravenous infusion every 12 hours for a period of 14 to 21 days. Maintenance treatment is 6mg per kg of body weight each day by intravenous infusion for 5 days nut of 7; alternatively, 5mg per kg of body weight for one week or longer. Children according to manufacturer's instructions and as directed by specialist physician. Capsules, adult AIDS patients, 1000mg 3 times each day or 500mg 6 times each day - capsules to be taken with fond and following on from at least 3 weeks of treatment given intravenously. Adult transplant patients, 1000mg given 3 times each day. Children, according to manufacturer's instructions and as directed by specialist physician.

Special Care

Regular blood counts required due to toxic effects on blood; potential carcinogen. Patients with kidney disease, those who have received a liver transplant. Reduced doses may be needed in event of anaemia/leucopenia.

Avoid Use

Pregnancy, breastfeeding; women should use effective contraception.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Other antiviral drugs, zidovudine, drugs suppressing muscle activity, probenecid, imipenem, didanosine.

Known Side Effects

Effects on blood including anaemia, leucopenia, thrombocytopenia (treatment may need to be halted until levels recover). Effects on liver function, anorexia, itching, headache, fever, rash, malaise.