Natclovir (Ganciclovir 250mg) 30 Capsules 250mg

Natclovir general information 


 What is Natclovir used for?

Natclovir 250 capsule is an antiviral medication used primarily to treat infections caused by cytomegalovirus (CMV) in immunocompromised individuals who have undergone an organ or bone marrow transplantation. CMV can cause serious complications, especially in people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome). It also reduces the risk of blindness in a serious eye infection caused by CMV, known as CMV retinitis.

How does Natclovir work?

Natclovir 250 capsule works by inhibiting the replication of the CMV virus, thereby helping to control the infection and prevent its spread within the body. It works by

1. Inhibition of Viral DNA Synthesis: Ganciclovir is a prodrug, meaning it is inactive until it is converted into its active form inside the body. Once inside the body, Ganciclovir is converted into its active form by enzymes in virus-infected cells. This active form interferes with the synthesis of viral DNA by inhibiting the action of viral DNA polymerase, an enzyme necessary for the replication of viral DNA.

2. Incorporation into Viral DNA: Ganciclovir's active form resembles one of the building blocks of DNA. When the virus attempts to replicate its DNA, Ganciclovir's active form is incorporated into the viral DNA strand. However, Ganciclovir lacks the necessary chemical groups to allow further DNA chain elongation, effectively terminating the DNA replication process.

3. Prevention of Viral Replication: By interfering with viral DNA synthesis and terminating DNA replication, Ganciclovir prevents the virus from replicating and spreading within the body. This helps to control the viral infection and reduce its severity.

What does Natclovir contain?

Natclovir 250 capsule contains the active ingredient 250mg of Ganciclovir.

What are the side effects of Natclovir?

The most common side effects of Natclovir 250mg capsule are

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhoea
• Skin rash

When should Natclovir not be used?

You should not use Natclovir 250mg capsule if you:

• Are allergic or hypersensitive to Ganciclovir, or any of the inactive ingredients in Natclovir 250mg capsule
• Are pregnant or are breastfeeding without discussing with a Healthcare Provider.
• Have severe kidney and/or liver impairment.
• Have bone marrow suppression.
• Have neutropenia or thrombocytopenia
• Are receiving myelosuppressive or nephrotoxic drugs: Natclovir 250mg capsule may interact with other medications, particularly those that are myelosuppressive (suppress bone marrow function) or nephrotoxic (toxic to the kidneys). Concurrent use of Natclovir 250mg capsule with these drugs may increase the risk of adverse effects and require dosage adjustments.

What medications interact with Natclovir?

Inform your Doctor or Healthcare Professional if you are taking the following medicine:

• Didanosine,zidovudine (manages HIV infection)
• Probenecid (manages gout)
• Imipenem-cilastatin (manages infection)
• Other medications

How should Natclovir be taken?

Natclovir 250mg capsule should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. They can be taken with or without food. It's essential to avoid crushing, chewing, or opening the capsules, as this can alter the drug's release mechanism and effectiveness.

How long should Natclovir be taken?

You should take your Natclovir tablets continually for as long as recommended by your doctor. Discontinuing treatment prematurely may increase the risk of recurrence or treatment failure.

Missed dose of Natclovir?

If you miss a dose of Natclovir 250mg capsule, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is time to take the next dose, then skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose.

How should Natclovir be stored?

Natclovir 250mg capsule should be stored at room temperature (25- 30 C) away from moisture and heat. They should be kept out of reach of children and pets.