Virupos
Generic Name
Ganciclovir Ophthalmic Gel
Manufacturer
URSAPHARM Arzneimittel GmbH
Country
Germany
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| virupos 3 eye ointment | ৳ 600.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Virupos is an ophthalmic gel containing ganciclovir, used for the treatment of acute herpetic keratitis (herpes simplex virus infection of the eye). It works by stopping the growth and spread of the virus.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Apply one drop into the affected eye 5 times daily until re-epithelialization of the corneal ulcer, then 3 times daily for 7 days. Total treatment duration should not exceed 21 days.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment is required for elderly patients.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment is necessary for patients with renal impairment due to minimal systemic absorption with ocular administration.
How to Take
Wash hands thoroughly before use. Tilt head back, pull down the lower eyelid to form a pocket. Apply a small ribbon (about 1 cm) of gel into the conjunctival sac. Close the eye gently for a few seconds. Do not touch the tip of the tube to the eye or any other surface to avoid contamination.
Mechanism of Action
Ganciclovir is an antiviral agent that inhibits herpes simplex virus replication. It is phosphorylated to ganciclovir triphosphate by viral and cellular kinases. Ganciclovir triphosphate then competitively inhibits viral DNA polymerase and is incorporated into viral DNA, leading to chain termination and inhibition of viral DNA synthesis.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical improvement typically seen within a few days of treatment initiation.
Excretion
Mainly excreted unchanged in the urine if systemically absorbed, but local ocular elimination pathways are more relevant for topical application.
Half life
Not well characterized for topical ocular use due to minimal systemic absorption; systemic half-life is approximately 4 hours.
Absorption
Systemic absorption is minimal following ocular administration of ganciclovir ophthalmic gel. Plasma concentrations are typically below the limits of quantification.
Metabolism
Minimal systemic metabolism occurs after ocular administration. If absorbed systemically, it is not extensively metabolized.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to ganciclovir, acyclovir, or any other component of the formulation.
- Use in patients with known severe ocular allergies (unless specifically advised by a specialist).
Drug Interactions
Other ophthalmic medications
If using other eye drops or ointments, wait at least 5-10 minutes between applications. Apply Virupos last.
No significant systemic drug interactions
Due to minimal systemic absorption, clinically significant drug-drug interactions are unlikely with ophthalmic ganciclovir.
Storage
Store below 25°C. Do not freeze. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Accidental overdose with ophthalmic ganciclovir is unlikely to cause systemic toxicity due to minimal absorption. If accidentally ingested, symptomatic and supportive measures may be considered, although systemic effects are rare.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown whether ganciclovir is excreted in human milk after ophthalmic administration; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
2 years (unopened). Discard 4 weeks after opening the tube.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Off-patent
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of ophthalmic ganciclovir in the treatment of acute herpetic keratitis, showing comparable or superior outcomes to other established antiviral treatments like acyclovir ophthalmic ointment.
Lab Monitoring
- No specific laboratory monitoring is typically required for ophthalmic ganciclovir due to minimal systemic exposure.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize patient compliance for the full course of treatment to prevent recurrence.
- Advise patients about temporary blurred vision and contact lens avoidance.
- Monitor for signs of secondary bacterial or fungal infection, and adjust treatment if necessary.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not wear contact lenses during treatment with Virupos eye gel, as they may hinder healing and increase the risk of infection.
- Always wash your hands before and after applying the gel.
- Do not share your eye medication with others.
- If vision becomes blurred, wait until it clears before driving or operating machinery.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Virupos eye gel may cause temporary blurred vision or other visual disturbances. If this occurs, avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision has cleared.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen the infection and irritate the treated area.
- Maintain good ocular hygiene to prevent reinfection.
- Follow your doctor's instructions meticulously for the full duration of treatment, even if symptoms improve early.
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