Skip to content
ClinCalc Pro
Menu
Calculators Drugs Pathways AI Dx Donate Get the App
Ganciclovir prodrug

Valganciclovir

Brand names: Valcyte

Valganciclovir is an oral prodrug of ganciclovir used to treat cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in immunocompromised patients and to prevent CMV disease after solid-organ transplantation.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It is hydrolysed to ganciclovir, which is phosphorylated (initially by a viral kinase) to a triphosphate that inhibits CMV DNA polymerase and viral DNA synthesis.

Prescribing in practice

  • It is myelosuppressive and can cause severe neutropenia, anaemia and thrombocytopenia, so the blood count must be monitored and the drug is potentially teratogenic and carcinogenic.
  • The dose must be reduced in renal impairment as clearance is renally dependent.
  • Tablets are cytotoxic and should be handled with care, avoiding crushing or breaking.

Monitoring

Monitor full blood count regularly and renal function throughout treatment.

Counselling the patient

  • Attend for regular blood tests to check your blood counts.
  • Use effective contraception during and for a period after treatment, as advised.
  • Report sore throat, fever, bruising or unusual bleeding promptly.

Evidence & guidelines

Valganciclovir is established for CMV prophylaxis and treatment in transplantation and HIV-related disease per current guidance.

Reference: SmPC; UK transplant guidelines; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Pathways