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January 1, 2026
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Brand Name :
Vitrasert DSC, Zirgan
Synonyms :
ganciclovir ophthalmic
Class :
Antiviral, Ophthalmic
Brand Name :
Vitrasert DSC, Zirgan
Synonyms :
ganciclovir ophthalmic
Class :
Antiviral, Ophthalmic
Dosage Forms & Strengths
Ophthalmic gel
0.15%
Dosage Forms & Strengths
Ophthalmic gel
0.15%
Refer to adult dosing
Actions and Spectrum
ganciclovir ophthalmic is an antiviral drug that prevents viral DNA from replicating. The viral enzyme thymidine kinase transforms it from a synthetic nucleoside analogue to its active form, ganciclovir triphosphate.
When the viral DNA chain is expanding, ganciclovir triphosphate joins it and competes with the normal nucleoside triphosphates to prevent its creation. ganciclovir primarily targets certain viruses, including herpes simplex virus (HSV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV).
Frequency defined
1-10%
Conjunctival hyperemia (5%)
Punctate keratitis (5%)
>10%
Retinal detachment (10-20%)
Vitreous hemorrhage (10-20%)
Visual acuity loss (10-20%)
Frequency not defined
Hyphema
Uveitis
IOP spike
Black Box Warning
None
Contraindication/Caution:
Contraindication:
Caution:
Pregnancy consideration:
Pregnancy category: N/A
Lactation: Excretion into human milk is unknown
Pregnancy Categories:
Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester.
Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women.
Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.
Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.
Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.
Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category.
Pharmacology
ganciclovir ophthalmic is a synthetic nucleoside analog of guanosine. It inhibits viral DNA replication by competitively inhibiting viral DNA polymerase and acting as a chain terminator.
Pharmacodynamics
ganciclovir ophthalmic is specifically formulated for ocular use, and its effects are primarily localized to the eye.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
When applied topically to the eye, ganciclovir ophthalmic gel or solution is minimally absorbed systemically.
Distribution
The distribution of ganciclovir outside the eye is limited due to the low systemic absorption.
Metabolism
ganciclovir ophthalmic undergoes limited metabolism in the body.
Elimination and excretion
ganciclovir ophthalmic is eliminated via renal excretion.
Administration
ganciclovir ophthalmic is usually available in the form of an ophthalmic gel or ophthalmic solution.
Patient information leaflet
Generic Name: ganciclovir ophthalmic
Why do we use ganciclovir ophthalmic?
ganciclovir ophthalmic is indicated for the treatment of Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) keratitis, which is a viral infection of the cornea caused by the herpes simplex virus. ganciclovir ophthalmic is used for the local treatment of Cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis, which is a viral infection affecting the retina.
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