Velatas
Generic Name
Valganciclovir
Manufacturer
Various Manufacturers
Country
Global / Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| velatas 400 mg tablet | ৳ 1,000.00 | ৳ 7,000.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Valganciclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in patients with AIDS and to prevent CMV disease in high-risk organ transplant recipients. It is a prodrug of ganciclovir.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
CMV retinitis induction: 900 mg twice daily for 21 days. Maintenance: 900 mg once daily. CMV prophylaxis: 900 mg once daily starting within 10 days of transplant and continuing for 100-200 days depending on organ type.
Elderly
Dosage adjustments based on renal function.
Renal_impairment
Significant dose reduction required based on creatinine clearance.
How to Take
Orally, with food to enhance bioavailability. Tablets should not be crushed or broken.
Mechanism of Action
Valganciclovir is converted to ganciclovir, which is then phosphorylated to ganciclovir triphosphate. This active metabolite inhibits viral DNA synthesis by competing with deoxyguanosine triphosphate for incorporation into viral DNA by viral DNA polymerase, and by direct inhibition of viral DNA polymerase.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Not immediate, depends on conversion to ganciclovir and achieving therapeutic levels.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged as ganciclovir by glomerular filtration and tubular secretion in the urine.
Half life
Ganciclovir's half-life is about 4 hours in patients with normal renal function.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed and extensively converted to ganciclovir in the intestinal wall and liver. Bioavailability is approximately 60%.
Metabolism
Rapidly metabolized to ganciclovir by intestinal and hepatic esterases.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to valganciclovir or ganciclovir.
Drug Interactions
Didanosine
Increased didanosine levels.
Probenecid
May increase ganciclovir levels.
Zidovudine
Increased risk of hematologic toxicity.
Mycophenolate Mofetil
Increased levels of both drugs, increased risk of hematologic and gastrointestinal toxicities.
Storage
Store at room temperature (20-25°C), away from moisture and light.
Overdose
Symptoms may include bone marrow suppression, liver and kidney toxicity. Management is supportive, including hydration and hemodialysis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Avoid breastfeeding.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to valganciclovir or ganciclovir.
Drug Interactions
Didanosine
Increased didanosine levels.
Probenecid
May increase ganciclovir levels.
Zidovudine
Increased risk of hematologic toxicity.
Mycophenolate Mofetil
Increased levels of both drugs, increased risk of hematologic and gastrointestinal toxicities.
Storage
Store at room temperature (20-25°C), away from moisture and light.
Overdose
Symptoms may include bone marrow suppression, liver and kidney toxicity. Management is supportive, including hydration and hemodialysis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Avoid breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24-36 months
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
FDA Approved
Patent Status
Off-patent (generic versions available)
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials support its efficacy and safety for approved indications.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete blood counts (CBC) with differential
- Serum creatinine
- Liver function tests (LFTs) regularly, especially during induction therapy and in patients with renal impairment.
Doctor Notes
- Monitor CBC and renal function closely.
- Ensure proper hydration.
- Educate patients on symptoms of neutropenia/anemia.
Patient Guidelines
- Take with food.
- Do not crush or break tablets.
- Report any signs of infection (fever, sore throat) or bleeding/bruising.
Missed Dose Advice
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at once.
Driving Precautions
May cause dizziness, seizures, or confusion. Avoid driving or operating machinery if affected.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent infections.
- Follow up with all scheduled lab tests.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.