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compositionComposition:GANCICLOVIR-500MG
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Gavir 500 Injection is used to treat Cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis. It contains Ganciclovir, which kills and stops the cytomegalovirus's growth. Thus, it helps to treat Cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis. It is also used to prevent Cytomegalovirus disease in transplant patients at risk for CMV infection. Common side effects of Gavir 500 Injection may include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, itching, sensitivity to light (photosensitivity), swelling, redness and tenderness at the injection site.

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Written By Dr. Lakshmithulasi Yarragunta , PharmD (PB)
Reviewed By Dr Aneela Siddabathuni , MPharma., PhD
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More about the Product

Composition :

GANCICLOVIR-500MG

Manufacturer/Marketer :

United Biotech Pvt Ltd

Consume Type :

Parenteral

Expires on or after :

Jan-27

Return Policy :

Not Returnable

About Gavir 500 Injection

Gavir 500 Injection is an antiviral medicine injected into a vein to treat cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis, which is a serious eye infection that can lead to blindness in people with weakened immune systems. It is also used to prevent CMV disease in individuals who have received an organ or bone marrow transplant. This medicine helps manage the viral infection but does not cure it completely.

Because Gavir 500 Injection is given as an injection or infusion into a vein, it is typically administered at regular intervals as directed by your healthcare provider to maintain steady levels in your body. It is important not to miss any scheduled appointments for your treatment to ensure the medicine works effectively. Staying well-hydrated during your treatment is highly recommended to protect your kidneys.

Some people may experience common side effects such as fever, low blood cell counts, diarrhoea, or local irritation at the injection site. You must consult your doctor immediately if you experience serious side effects, such as signs of an infection, unusual bruising or bleeding, or extreme tiredness.

Before starting this medicine, tell your doctor if you have kidney problems, low blood cell counts, or are receiving radiation therapy. Do not take this if you have had a severe allergic reaction to this medicine or similar antiviral medications in the past.

This medicine can interact with other drugs that damage your kidneys or bone marrow, increasing the risk of serious side effects. It is also important to consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as this medicine can cause harm to an unborn baby or nursing infant.

Uses of Gavir 500 Injection

Gavir 500 Injection is used in the treatment of Cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis and prevention of CMV disease in transplant patients. The detailed uses of Gavir 500 Injection are as follows:

  • Cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis: Gavir 500 Injection helps by stopping the virus from multiplying in the eye, preventing vision loss in patients with weakened immune systems.
  • CMV disease prevention: Gavir 500 Injection helps lower the risk of developing a serious CMV infection after an organ or bone marrow transplant. In transplant recipients, the doctor may prescribe Gavir 500 Injection either to prevent CMV infection before it develops (prophylaxis) or to treat CMV infection detected early on blood tests before symptoms appear (pre-emptive therapy).

Key Benefits

Gavir 500 Injection helps treat and prevent serious cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections. The following are the benefits of this medication:

  • Helps stop the spread of CMV in the retina, protecting remaining eyesight in people with CMV retinitis.
  • Reduces the risk of CMV disease and related complications in organ transplant recipients.
  • Helps control CMV infection by preventing the virus from multiplying.
  • Lowers the frequency of severe CMV flare-ups.
  • Supports recovery and improves outcomes in people at high risk of CMV infection.
     
Side effects of Gavir 500 Injection
  • Talk to your doctor about medicines to manage neutropenia based on the underlying cause.
  • Avoid contact with people who are sick.
  • Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.
  • Avoid unpasteurized dairy products.
  • Include iron-rich foods like dark leafy vegetables, lean red meat, legumes and fish in your diet.
  • Consume vitamin C-rich foods as they aid iron absorption.
  • Limit tea, cocoa, and coffee as these can slow iron absorption.
  • Exercise regularly; however, do not overdo it.
  • Consume more protein-rich foods and healthy fats like beans, avocados, cheese, nuts and lean meats to minimize appetite.
  • Prefer foods high in fiber to help feel full for a long time.
  • If you have decreased appetite, eat only when you are hungry.
  • Eat several small meals or snacks all day.
  • Try to take only small sips of fluids while eating.
Dealing with Medication-Induced Headache:
  • Hydrate your body: Drink enough water to prevent dehydration and headaches.
  • Calm Your Mind: Deep breathing and meditation can help you relax and relieve stress.
  • Rest and Recharge: Sleep for 7-8 hours to reduce headache triggers.
  • Take rest: lie down in a quiet, dark environment.
  • Cold or warm compresses can help reduce tension.
  • Stay Upright: Maintain good posture to keep symptoms from getting worse.
  • To treat headaches naturally, try acupuncture or massage therapy.
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers include acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
  • Prescription Assistance: Speak with your doctor about more substantial drug alternatives.
  • Severe Headaches: Seek emergency medical assistance for sudden, severe headaches.
  • Frequent Headaches: If you get reoccurring headaches, consult your doctor.
  • Headaches with Symptoms: Seek medical attention if your headaches include fever, disorientation, or weakness.
Here are the steps to manage the medication-triggered Cough:
  • Tell your doctor about the cough symptoms you're experiencing, which may be triggered by your medication.
  • Your doctor may adjust your treatment plan by changing your medication, adding new medications, or providing guidance on managing your cough symptoms.
  • Practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with others, and avoiding sharing utensils or personal items.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, tea, or soup, to help thin out mucus and soothe your throat.
  • Get plenty of rest and engage in stress-reducing activities to help your body recover. If your cough persists or worsens, consult your doctor for further guidance.
Here are the precise steps to cope with diarrhoea caused by medication usage:
  • Inform Your Doctor: Notify your doctor immediately about your diarrhoea symptoms. This allows them to adjust your medication or provide guidance on managing side effects.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to replace lost water and electrolytes. Choose water, clear broth, and electrolyte-rich drinks. Avoid carbonated or caffeinated beverages to effectively rehydrate your body.
  • Follow a Bland Diet: Eat easy-to-digest foods to help firm up your stool and settle your stomach. Try incorporating bananas, rice, applesauce, toast, plain crackers, and boiled vegetables into your diet.
  • Avoid Trigger Foods: Steer clear of foods that can worsen diarrhoea, such as spicy, fatty, or greasy foods, high-fibre foods, and dairy products (especially if you're lactose intolerant).
  • Practice Good Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene to prevent the spread of infection. To stay healthy, wash your hands frequently, clean and disinfect surfaces regularly, and avoid exchanging personal belongings with others.
  • Take Anti-Diarrheal Medications: If your doctor advises, anti-diarrheal medications such as loperamide might help manage diarrhoea symptoms. Always follow your doctor's directions.
  • Keep track of your diarrhoea symptoms. If they don't get better or worse or are accompanied by severe stomach pain, blood, or dehydration signs (like extreme thirst or dark urine), seek medical help.
Overcome Medication-Induced Nausea: A 9-Step Plan
  • Inform your doctor about the nausea and discuss possible alternatives to the medication or adjustments to the dosage.
  • Divide your daily food intake into smaller, more frequent meals to reduce nausea.
  • Opt for bland, easily digestible foods like crackers, toast, plain rice, bananas, and applesauce.
  • Avoid certain foods that can trigger nausea, such as fatty, greasy, spicy, and smelly foods.
  • Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, clear broth, or electrolyte-rich beverages like coconut water or sports drinks.
  • Use ginger (tea, ale, or candies) to help relieve nausea.
  • Get adequate rest and also avoid strenuous activities that can worsen nausea.
  • Talk to your doctor about taking anti-nausea medication if your nausea is severe.
  • Record when your nausea occurs, what triggers it, and what provides relief to help you identify patterns and manage your symptoms more effectively.

Directions for Use

  • Your doctor will determine the dosage and frequency depending on your condition.
  • Gavir 500 Injection will be administered by a healthcare professional.
  • Do not self-administer.

How Gavir 500 Injection Works

Gavir 500 Injection is an antiviral medicine. Once it enters the body, it is converted into an active form inside the virus-infected cells. This active form blocks the action of a specific viral enzyme that the virus needs to copy its genetic material. By stopping the virus from multiplying and spreading, Gavir 500 Injection keeps the infection under control, allowing your body to manage the disease.
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Alcohol

Consult your doctor

There is limited information on how alcohol consumption affects Gavir 500 Injection. Please consult your doctor.

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Pregnancy

Unsafe

Gavir 500 Injection may cause fetal toxicity and Impairment of Fertility in males and females. Hence, inform your doctor if you are pregnant before receiving Gavir 500 Injection.

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Breast Feeding

Unsafe

Gavir 500 Injection is not recommended for use in nursing mothers as it can cause serious side effects to newborn infants. Hence, inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding before receiving this medicine.

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Driving

Caution

Gavir 500 Injection causes sleepiness and drowsiness. Do not drive or operate machinery that requires metal alertness.

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Liver

Caution

Inform your doctor if you have any history of liver diseases or hepatic impairment before receiving Gavir 500 Injection. Your doctor will advise this medicine only if the benefits outweigh the risks.

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Kidney

Unsafe

Gavir 500 Injection is known to cause kidney or renal problems. Hence, inform your doctor if you have any history of kidney diseases before receiving Gavir 500 Injection as it can cause serious side effects.

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Children

Caution

The use of Gavir 500 Injection is not recommended for children below 16 years of age as the safety and efficacy data are not established.

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Heart

Caution

Gavir 500 Injection may be used in heart patients under strict medical supervision due to risks like anemia and low platelet counts. Proper hydration and slow infusion help reduce toxicity and ensure safer use.

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Geriatrics

Caution

Geriatric patients may receive Gavir 500 Injection, but with caution due to age-related decline in kidney function. It can increase the risk of toxicity, so dose adjustments and close monitoring are essential.

What if I have taken an overdose of Gavir 500 Injection

Since this medicine is given by a healthcare professional, an overdose is unlikely. However, if you suspect an overdose or experience severe side effects, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control centre.

Diet & Lifestyle Advise

  • Stay well-hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to help your kidneys clear the medicine safely and prevent kidney damage.
  • Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently and avoid close contact with people who are sick, as this medicine can lower your white blood cell count and make you more prone to infections.
  • Protect your eyes: If you are being treated for CMV retinitis, wear sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from bright light, and attend all scheduled eye examinations.
  • Use effective birth control: Both men and women using Gavir 500 Injection should use reliable birth control during treatment and for a specified time afterwards, as this medicine can cause birth defects and affect fertility.
  • Avoid alcohol: Alcohol may increase the strain on your liver and contribute to dehydration, which may increase the risk of side effects, especially if you have kidney or liver problems. Ask your doctor whether it is safe for you to drink alcohol during treatment.
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How Soon It Starts Working

The time required for Gavir 500 Injection to start to work: The exact onset time of Gavir 500 Injection has not been clinically established. The time for which the effects of Gavir 500 Injection last: The duration of Gavir 500 Injection’s effect is clinically not established.

What if you forget to take Gavir 500 Injection

If you miss an appointment for your injection, contact your healthcare provider right away to reschedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Storage

•Store sealed vials of the powder (before it is mixed into a liquid) at controlled room temperature, between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F).

Drug Warnings

  • Check the medicine before use: Inspect the injection before use. Do not use it if the liquid looks cloudy, has changed colour, or contains particles.
  • Use new injection supplies: Never reuse needles, syringes, or infusion tubing. Dispose of used items safely in a puncture-resistant sharps container.
  • Attend regular blood tests: Have blood tests as advised by your doctor to check your blood cell counts and kidney function during treatment.
  • Avoid driving if affected: If you feel dizzy, sleepy, or confused after receiving this medicine, do not drive or operate machinery until you feel fully alert.
  • Handle the medicine carefully: Avoid getting the powder or liquid on your skin or in your eyes. If accidental contact occurs, wash the area immediately with soap and water.
  • Attend eye check-ups for CMV retinitis: If you are being treated for CMV retinitis, keep all appointments with your eye specialist. Regular eye examinations help monitor your treatment and protect your vision.
  • Keep transplant follow-up appointments: If you have had an organ or bone marrow transplant, attend all scheduled follow-up visits. Your doctor may recommend regular CMV blood tests to check for early signs of infection and determine if you need preventive or additional treatment.

Drug-Drug Interactions

verifiedApollotooltip
  • Bone marrow-suppressing medicines (e.g., certain antiviral medicines): Taking these medicines alongside Gavir 500 Injection may severely lower your blood cell counts.
  • Antibiotics (e.g., imipenem-cilastatin): Taking these antibiotics alongside Gavir 500 Injection may increase the risk of seizures.
  • Medicines that may cause kidney damage (e.g., amphotericin B, cyclosporine): Taking these medicines alongside Gavir 500 Injection may increase the risk of kidney problems and may require closer monitoring.
GanciclovirCidofovir
Critical
GanciclovirAdalimumab
Severe

Drug-Drug Interactions

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GanciclovirCidofovir
Critical
How does the drug interact with Gavir 500 Injection:
Coadministration of cidofovir with Gavir 500 Injection can increase the risk of kidney problems.

How to manage the interaction:
Although there is a interaction between Gavir 500 Injection and Cidofovir hence it is not recommended to be taken together, but it can be taken only if advised by a doctor. However, if you experience nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, increased or decreased urination, sudden weight gain or loss, fluid retention, swelling, shortness of breath, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, confusion, or an irregular heart rhythm, consult a doctor. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting a doctor.
GanciclovirAdalimumab
Severe
How does the drug interact with Gavir 500 Injection:
Using Gavir 500 Injection together with adalimumab may increase the risk of serious infections.

How to manage the interaction:
Taking Gavir 500 Injection with adalimumab together can result in an interaction, it can be taken if your doctor has advised it. However, if you experience fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle aches, shortness of breath, blood in phlegm, weight loss, red or inflamed skin, body sores, and pain or burning during urination, contact a doctor immediately. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting a doctor.
GanciclovirDeferiprone
Severe
How does the drug interact with Gavir 500 Injection:
Gavir 500 Injection can cause higher levels of Deferiprone in the blood by reducing its excretion rate. This can increase the risk or severity of side effects.

How to manage the interaction:
Although taking Gavir 500 Injection and Deferiprone together can evidently cause an interaction, it can be taken if your doctor has suggested it. If you're having any of these symptoms - like a sore throat, fever, or muscle aches - it's important to let a doctor know right away. Do not stop using any medications without a doctor's advice.
GanciclovirZidovudine
Severe
How does the drug interact with Gavir 500 Injection:
Using zidovudine together with Gavir 500 Injection may increase the risk of side effects affecting the blood leading to decreased levels of blood cells.

How to manage the interaction:
Taking Gavir 500 Injection with zidovudine together can possibly result in an interaction, it can be taken if your doctor has advised it. However, if you notice any symptoms of fever, chills, sore throat, rashes, tiredness, headaches, irritation, confusion, edema, fatigue, palpitations, or constipation, you should contact a doctor immediately. Do not stop using any medications without talking to a doctor.
GanciclovirClozapine
Severe
How does the drug interact with Gavir 500 Injection:
Clozapine can cause higher levels of Gavir 500 Injection in the blood by reducing its excretion rate. This can increase the risk or severity of side effects.

How to manage the interaction:
Although there is a possible interaction between Gavir 500 Injection and Clozapine, you can take these medicines together if prescribed by a doctor. If you're having any of these symptoms like fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle aches, breathing difficulty, weight loss, or pain, it's important to contact a doctor right away. Do not stop using any medications without talking to a doctor.
GanciclovirGolimumab
Severe
How does the drug interact with Gavir 500 Injection:
Using Gavir 500 Injection together with golimumab may increase the risk of serious infections.

How to manage the interaction:
Although there is a possible interaction between Gavir 500 Injection and Golimumab, you can take these medicines together if prescribed by your doctor. If you have any of these symptoms like fever, chills, diarrhea, a sore throat, muscle pain, difficulty breathing, weight loss, and pain or burning when you pee contact a doctor immediately. Do not stop using any medications without a doctor's advice.
GanciclovirMaribavir
Severe
How does the drug interact with Gavir 500 Injection:
Coadministration of Gavir 500 Injection with Maribavir may alter the effectiveness of both these medications. This can lead to low treatment outcomes.

How to manage the interaction:
Taking Maribavir and Gavir 500 Injection together can possibly result in an interaction; it can be taken if your doctor has advised it. Do not stop using any medications without talking to your doctor.
GanciclovirEtanercept
Severe
How does the drug interact with Gavir 500 Injection:
Using Gavir 500 Injection together with etanercept may increase the risk of serious infections.

How to manage the interaction:
There may be a possibility of interaction between Gavir 500 Injection and Etanercept, but it can be taken if prescribed by a doctor. However, if you experience fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle pains, breathing difficulty, blood in your coughing fluid, weight loss, red or irritated skin, body sores, and discomfort or burning when you urinate, consult a doctor.
GanciclovirInfliximab
Severe
How does the drug interact with Gavir 500 Injection:
Combining Infliximab with Gavir 500 Injection can increase the risk or severity of developing serious infections.

How to manage the interaction:
There may be a possibility of interaction between Gavir 500 Injection and Infliximab, but it can be taken if prescribed by a doctor. If you have any of these symptom's fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle aches, difficulty breathing, weight loss, and pain or burning when you urinate contact your doctor immediately. Don't hesitate to reach out to a doctor if you experience any of these. Do not stop using any medications without a doctor's advice.
GanciclovirCertolizumab
Severe
How does the drug interact with Gavir 500 Injection:
Using Gavir 500 Injection together with certolizumab may increase the risk of serious infections.

How to manage the interaction:
Taking Gavir 500 Injection with certolizumab together can result in an interaction, it can be taken if your doctor has advised it. However, if you experience fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle aches, shortness of breath, blood in phlegm, weight loss, red or inflamed skin, body sores, and pain or burning during urination, contact a doctor immediately. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting a doctor.

Drug-Food Interactions

verifiedApollotooltip
  • No clinically significant food interactions are known with Gavir 500 Injection.
     
No Drug - Food interactions found in our database. Some may be unknown. Consult your doctor for what to avoid during medication.

Drug-Food Interactions

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Habit Forming

No

Therapeutic Class

[ANTIVIRALS]

FAQs

Gavir 500 Injection is used to treat Cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis and Cytomegalovirus disease in transplant patients.
Gavir 500 Injection works by killing and stopping the growth of the cytomegalovirus, thereby helping treat the infection.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or a nursing mother before starting treatment with Gavir 500 Injection. Maintain caution if you have kidney, liver, or blood disorders, a weakened immune system, breathing problems, and an electrolyte imbalance, as it may worsen your condition. Your doctor will administer Gavir 500 Injection only when the benefits outweigh the risks.
Please consult your doctor before you start Gavir 500 Injection if you are undergoing any immunizations/vaccinations, especially vaccines against the varicella virus.
Always inform your surgery doctor about the treatment with Gavir 500 Injection to avoid serious side effects.
Inform your doctor about any eye problems other than CMV retinitis. Do not use any medicine without consulting the doctor.
No, Gavir 500 Injection does not cure CMV infection. It controls the multiplication of the virus to manage symptoms and prevent further damage, but the virus remains in the body. Talk to your doctor.
This medicine is injected directly into a vein through an intravenous (IV) infusion, usually by a doctor or nurse in a clinical setting. Talk to your doctor.
This medicine is generally not recommended during pregnancy because it can cause serious birth defects. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks before starting treatment. Talk to your doctor.
Yes, clinical evidence suggests that this medicine may cause temporary or permanent infertility in both men and women. Discuss family planning options with your healthcare provider. Talk to your doctor.
Mild pain or redness at the injection site can occur. However, if you notice severe swelling, warmth, or pus, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Talk to your doctor.
This medicine may cause dizziness, sleepiness, or confusion in some people. If you experience these side effects, do not drive or operate machinery until you feel fully alert. Talk to your doctor.
Your doctor will order regular blood tests to monitor your kidney function and blood cell counts, as this medicine can lower blood cells that fight infection or help clot. Talk to your doctor.
The duration of treatment depends on the severity of your infection and how your body responds to the medicine. Your doctor will determine the exact length of your therapy. Talk to your doctor.

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Reference

  1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 209347Lbl [FDA Prescribing Information]. Silver Spring, MD: FDA; 2024. [Accessed on 02 Jun. 2026]Check here
  2. DailyMed Database. Druginfo.Cfm Clinical Monograph. Bethesda, MD: National Library of Medicine; 2025. [Accessed on 02 Jun. 2026]Check here
  3. MedlinePlus. A689014 Patient Information Monograph. Bethesda, MD: U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM); 2025. [Accessed on 02 Jun. 2026]Check here
  4. Ganciclovir Ganciclovir. 2000. [Accessed on 01 Apr. 2019]Check here
  5. Ema.Ganciclovir [[Accessed on 27 Aug]. 2019]Check here
  6. Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Ganciclovir. [Updated 2018 Dec 3]Check here
  7. Joseph Colin. Ganciclovir ophthalmic gel, 0.15%: a valuable tool for treating ocular herpes. [Revised on December 2007] [Accessed on 3rd December 2022]Check here

Country of origin

INDIA

Manufacturer/Marketer address

FC/B-1 (Extn.), Mohan Co-operative Industrial Estate Mathura Road, New Delhi - 110 044
Other Info - GAV0001
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