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Valganciclovir Coupon - Valganciclovir 450mg tablet

valganciclovir

Generic Valcyte
Used for CMV
Used for CMV

Valganciclovir (Valcyte) is an oral antiviral medication used for cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections. If you're taking it to prevent an infection, you typically take it just once daily. But if you're taking it to treat a CMV infection, you'll likely need to take it twice daily for a few weeks in the beginning of treatment. Some common side effects of valganciclovir (Valcyte) include diarrhea, fever, and fatigue. Valganciclovir (Valcyte) comes as both a tablet and an oral solution, and is available as a lower-cost generic.

Last reviewed on April 5, 2023
basics-icon

What is Valganciclovir (Valcyte)?

What is Valganciclovir (Valcyte) used for?

  • Prevention of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection after organ transplant

  • Treatment of CMV eye infection in adults with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)

How Valganciclovir (Valcyte) works

Valganciclovir (Valcyte) is metabolized (broken down) by the body to an active antiviral medication called ganciclovir. Ganciclovir stops an enzyme called DNA polymerase. Without this enzyme, the virus can't make copies of itself.

Are you looking for information on valacyclovir (Valtrex) instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsValcyte
Drug ClassAntiviral
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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Avg retail price
$3130.31(save 96.55%)
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$108.10
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What are the side effects of Valganciclovir (Valcyte)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

Treatment of CMV eye infection:
  • Diarrhea (41%)
  • Fever (31%)
  • Nausea (30%)
  • Headache (22%)
  • Low blood cell counts (up to 22%)
  • Vomiting (21%)
  • Difficulty sleeping (16%)
  • Stomach pain (15%)
  • Labs suggesting kidney problems (up to 12%)
Prevention of CMV infection after transplant:
  • Labs suggesting kidney problems (up to 50%)
  • Low blood cell counts (up to 31%)
  • Diarrhea (30%)
  • Shakiness (28%)
  • Nausea (23%)
  • Headache (22%)
  • Difficulty sleeping (20%)
  • Vomiting (16%)
  • Fever (13%)

Other Side Effects

  • Nerve pain in hands and feet
  • Tingling or prickling sensation
  • Eye pain
  • Chills
  • Not feeling as hungry
  • Back pain
  • Muscle pain
  • Cough
  • Night sweats

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Retinal detachment: sudden changes in vision, floaters, flashes of light
  • Blood and bone marrow problems
  • Kidney injury: urinating less often than usual, swelling in your feet, ankles, or hands, unexplained weight gain

Source: FDA

The following side effects have also been reported

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Aplastic anemia—unusual weakness or fatigue, dizziness, headache, trouble breathing, increased bleeding or bruising
  • Infection—fever, chills, cough, sore throat, wounds that don't heal, pain or trouble when passing urine, general feeling of discomfort or being unwell
  • Kidney injury—decrease in the amount of urine, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Valganciclovir (Valcyte)

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Pros

First-choice medication for CMV treatment and prevention

Available as a lower-cost generic

Taken by mouth, compared ganciclovir (Cytovene IV) that's injected into the veins

Comes as an oral solution for children or people who have a hard time swallowing the tablet

Maintenance dose is typically just once daily

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Cons

Might not be a good choice for people with kidney problems

Can cause fertility problems in males and females

Can cause certain anemias and other low blood cell counts

Causes a lot of stomach-related problems, such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting

Must take with food

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Valganciclovir (Valcyte)

pharmacist
  • You should take valganciclovir (Valcyte) at the same time every day with food.

    • Swallow the valganciclovir (Valcyte) tablet whole. Don't break, chew, or crush the tablets.

      • If you're taking valganciclovir (Valcyte) oral solution, your pharmacist can mix it for you at the pharmacy. Once it's mixed, you need to store the solution in the refrigerator. Keep in mind that the oral solution is only good for up to 49 days after it has been mixed. Don't take the medication past 49 days, even if you have some left in the bottle.

        • If you're taking the valganciclovir (Valcyte) oral solution, measure the dose carefully using a medication measuring cup or oral syringe. Don't use any household spoons to measure your medication because the dose might not be accurate. Don't mix the valganciclovir (Valcyte) oral solution with any other liquid.

          • Valganciclovir (Valcyte) can cause fertility problems and might also harm the unborn baby of those who become pregnant while taking this medication. Females should use an effective birth control method while they are taking valganciclovir (Valcyte) and for at least 30 days after they stop the medication. Males with female partners who may become pregnant should use condoms while they are taking valganciclovir (Valcyte) and for at least 90 days after they stop the medication.

            • Valganciclovir (Valcyte) is an antiviral medication and will only work to treat and prevent infections caused by CMV. Don't use it for an infection caused by bacteria or any other types of viruses.

              faqs

              Frequently asked questions about Valganciclovir (Valcyte)

              Is valganciclovir (Valcyte) an immunosuppressant?
              No, valganciclovir (Valcyte) isn't an immunosuppressant. This means that valganciclovir (Valcyte) doesn't weaken your immune system. But your provider will most likely prescribed valganciclovir (Valcyte) along with medications that are immunosuppressants after a transplant to prevent a CMV infection.
              Why do I need to take valganciclovir (Valcyte) after an organ transplant?
              Your provider will prescribe valganciclovir (Valcyte) after an organ transplant to prevent a CMV infection. CMV is a common virus that can infect people. If you have a healthy immune system, you typically won't experience any symptoms or only mild cold-like symptoms if you have a CMV infection. But if you've had a transplant, your immune system is a lot weaker because of the many of the transplant medications you need to take to prevent an organ rejection. In this case, getting a CMV infection can cause serious health complications for you and raise your risk for losing the transplanted organ.
              How long can do I need to take valganciclovir (Valcyte) after an organ transplant?
              Your provider will let you know how long you need take valganciclovir (Valcyte) after your organ transplant. The length of valganciclovir (Valcyte) treatment can differ from person to person. Typically, your provider will decide this based on several factors, including results from your blood work and whether you're experiencing any serious side effects from valganciclovir (Valcyte). They'll also take into account your risk of CMV infection, which depends on what kind of transplant you've received. In general, most people take valganciclovir (Valcyte) for 100 to 200 days (about 3 to 6 months) after their transplant because the risk for CMV is highest within the first 3 months after transplant and is lower after 6 months. Don't stop taking valganciclovir (Valcyte) unless your provider instructs you to do so.
              Is valganciclovir (Valcyte) the same as valacyclovir (Valtrex)?
              No. Both medications are antivirals and their names sound very similar, but they aren't the same. Valganciclovir (Valcyte) is used for the treatment and prevention of CMV. But valacyclovir (Valtrex) is approved to treat herpes virus infections, including cold sores and shingles.
              Can I drink alcohol while taking valganciclovir (Valcyte)?
              Ask your provider whether you should avoid alcohol or limit how much you drink. Alcohol isn't known to affect how well valganciclovir (Valcyte) works. But it can worsen certain side effects of valganciclovir (Valcyte), like dizziness and confusion. This can be especially dangerous if you're doing a task that requires you to be alert and focused, such as driving. In addition, drinking alcohol might not be safe for you at all if you've recently had a transplant.
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              What are the risks and warnings for Valganciclovir (Valcyte)?

              Valganciclovir (Valcyte) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

              risk-warning

              Low blood cell count and bone marrow problems

              • Risk factors: Taking other medications that affect blood cell count | Kidney problems

                Valganciclovir (Valcyte) can lower your blood cell counts and damage your bone marrow. This can make it harder for your body to fight new infections and raise your risk of bruising and prolonged bleeding. Your provider will order blood tests regularly and might change your dose of valganciclovir (Valcyte) or stop it altogether if your blood counts become too low. The blood counts typically start to improve 3 to 7 days after stopping the medication.

                Let your provider know if you experience any of the following symptoms:

                risk-warning

                Fertility problems

                Valganciclovir (Valcyte) at prescribed doses can cause fertility problems in both males and females. Sometimes, this can be permanent. If you're thinking about having a child in the future, talk to your healthcare provider about family planning before you begin treatment.

                risk-warning

                Harm to unborn baby

                Valganciclovir (Valcyte) can cause harm to an unborn baby if taken during pregnancy. This harm is also true for males taking the medication who have female partners who can become pregnant. For this reason, females should use an effective birth control method while they are taking valganciclovir (Valcyte) and for at least a month after they stop the medication. Males should use condoms while taking valganciclovir (Valcyte) and for at least 3 months after they stop the medication.

                risk-warning

                Cancer risk

                Based on animal studies valganciclovir (Valcyte) has the potential to cause cancer in humans. Make sure to tell your provider about your entire medical history before starting this medication.

                risk-warning

                Kidney problems

                • Risk factors: Dehydration | Older adults | Using other medications that harm the kidneys

                  Valganciclovir (Valcyte) can cause serious harm to the kidneys, especially in older adults. The risk is also higher if you become dehydrated or take other medications that can harm the kidneys. Stay hydrated while taking valganciclovir (Valcyte) and talk to your provider before taking any medications. Your provider might order regular lab tests to monitor your kidneys. If your labs show changes in your kidney health, your provider may lower your dose of valganciclovir (Valcyte).

                  dosage

                  Valganciclovir (Valcyte) dosage forms

                  The average cost for 60 tablets of 450mg of Valganciclovir (Valcyte) is $134.12 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 95.72% off the average retail price of $3130.31.
                  bottle of oral solution
                  Bottle of oral solution
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  100ml of 50mg/ml3 bottles$108.10$36.03
                  tablet
                  Tablet
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  450mg60 tablets$134.12$2.24

                  Typical dosing for Valganciclovir (Valcyte)

                  Treatment of CMV eye infection

                  • Adults: The typical dose is to take 900 mg by mouth twice daily for 3 weeks. After that, your provider will typically lower your dose to 900 mg by mouth once daily.

                  Prevention of CMV infection after transplant

                  • Adults (kidney, heart, or kidney-pancreas transplant): The typical dose is to take 900 mg by mouth once daily, starting within 10 days of organ transplant. You'll continue to take this medication for 100 to 200 days after your transplant, or as directed by your provider.

                  • Children (kidney or heart transplant): Your child's provider will determine your child's dose based on their height, weight, age, and kidney health. Typically, your child will start this medication within 10 days of organ transplant. They'll continue taking it for 100 to 200 days after their transplant, or as directed by their provider.

                  Your dose of valganciclovir (Valcyte) might be different depending on your kidney health.

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                  How much does Valganciclovir (Valcyte) cost?

                  To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.View prices & coupons
                  contraindications-icon

                  Valganciclovir (Valcyte) contraindications

                  Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Valganciclovir (Valcyte) will not be safe for you to take.
                  alternatives

                  What are alternatives to Valganciclovir (Valcyte)?

                  There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Valganciclovir (Valcyte). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                  Valganciclovir (Valcyte)
                  Used for:
                  • Prevention of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection after organ transplant

                  • Treatment of CMV eye infection in adults with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)

                  $108.10 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Used for:
                  • Cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in people with AIDs

                  $231.50 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Used for:
                  • Treatment of viral eye infection (CMV retinitis) in adults with weakened immune systems

                  • Prevention of CMV disease in adults who received a transplant

                  images

                  Valganciclovir (Valcyte) images

                  Pink Oval Vl And 450 - Valganciclovir 450mg Tablet
                  This medicine is Pink, Oval Tablet Imprinted With "450" And "Vl".Pink Oval Vl And 450 - Valganciclovir 450mg Tablet
                  Pink Oval 156 And J - Valganciclovir 450mg Tablet
                  This medicine is Pink, Oval Tablet Imprinted With "J" And "156".Pink Oval 156 And J - Valganciclovir 450mg Tablet
                  Pink Oval Rdy And 762 - Valganciclovir 450mg Tablet
                  This medicine is Pink, Oval Tablet Imprinted With "Rdy" And "762".Pink Oval Rdy And 762 - Valganciclovir 450mg Tablet
                  Pink Oval H And 96 - Valganciclovir 450mg Tablet
                  This medicine is Pink, Oval Tablet Imprinted With "H" And "96".Pink Oval H And 96 - Valganciclovir 450mg Tablet

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                  References

                  Best studies we found
                  View All References (7)

                  Azevedo, L. S., et al. (2015). Cytomegalovirus infection in transplant recipients. Clinics.

                  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). About cytomegalovirus (CMV).

                  Kotton, C. N., et al. (2018). The third international consensus guidelines on the management of cytomegalovirus in solid-organ transplantation. Transplantation.

                  National Human Genome Research Institute. (2023). Enzyme.

                  National Kidney Foundation. (2015). 6 tips to be "water wise" for healthy kidneys.

                  National Organization for Rare Disorders. (2009). Cytomegalovirus infection.

                  Vemulakonda, G. A. (2023). What is cytomegalovirus retinitis? American Academy of Ophthalmology.

                  GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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