Neonatal Drug Therapy Manual

Ganciclovir

Disclaimer: Official controlled document is the CHEO and Ottawa Hospital online copy. It is the responsibility of user to ensure that any paper copy version is the same as the online version before use.

Updated March 30, 2022 - 10:00am

Alternate Name(s): 
Cytovene
Classification: 
Antiviral
Original Date: 
February 2010
Revised Date: 
March 2022
Indications: 
  • Treatment of congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections
Administration: 
  • IV intermittent infusion: over 1 hour, preferably in a large peripheral vein or central vein
Dosage: 
  • 10 - 12 mg/kg/day divided Q12H

Dosage adjustment required in renal impairment. Refer to available references or clinical pharmacist for dosage adjustment.

Side Effects: 
  • CVS: edema, arrhythmias, hypertension
  • GI: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
  • Hematologic: neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia
  • Hepatic: abnormal liver function tests
  • Local: pain and inflammation at injection site, phlebitis
  • Renal: hematuria, elevated urea and serum creatinine
Parameters to Monitor: 
  • CBC with differential, platelet count, serum creatinine, liver function tests
  • Blood pressure, urine output
Reconstitution and Stability: 

Reconstitution and Stability: 

CHEO:
• Ganciclovir 5 mg/mL syringe dispensed by pharmacy

TOH:
• Ganciclovir 2.5 mg/mL syringe dispensed by pharmacy
 

Compatibility: 

- Solutions Compatible: D5W, 0.9% NaCl

Incompatible: TPN

Notes: 
  • Cytotoxic drug: consult corporate policy ADM V 250 (Cytotoxic and hazardous drug waste and spills) and Nursing Policy: Cytotoxic agents and hazardous drugs: safe handling, administration and disposal

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