ganciclovir sodium
Injection, Powder, Lyophilized, For Solution · Intravenous
Uses
Ganciclovir for Injection, USP is a deoxynucleoside analogue cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA polymerase inhibitor indicated for the: Treatment of CMV retinitis in immunocompromised adult patients, including patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). ( 1.1 ) Prevention of CMV disease in adult transplant recipients at risk for CMV disease. ( 1.2 ) 1.1 Treatment of CMV Retinitis Ganciclovir for Injection, USP is indicated for the treatment of cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in immunocompromised adult patients, including patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ]. 1.2 Prevention of CMV Disease in Transplant Recipients Ganciclovir for Injection, USP is indicated for the prevention of CMV disease in adult transplant recipients at risk for CMV disease [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ].
Dosage and administration
Ganciclovir for Injection, USP is administered only intravenously. ( 2.1 ) Dosage in Adult Patients with Normal Renal Function Treatment of CMV retinitis (2.3) Induction: 5 mg/kg (given intravenously at a constant rate over 1 hour) every 12 hours for 14 to 21 days. Maintenance: 5 mg/kg (given intravenously at a constant rate over 1 hour) once daily for 7 days per week, or 6 mg/kg once daily for 5 days per week. Prevention of CMV disease in transplant recipients (2.4) Induction: 5 mg/kg (given intravenously at a constant rate over 1 hour) every 12 hours for 7 to 14 days. Maintenance: 5 mg/kg (given intravenously at a constant rate over 1 hour) once daily for 7 days per week, or 6 mg/kg once daily for 5 days per week until 100 to 120 days post-transplantation. Adults with renal impairment: Adjust dosage based on creatinine clearance. ( 2.5 ) 2.1 Important Dosing and Administration Information To avoid phlebitis/pain at the infusion site, ganciclovir for injection must only be administered by intravenous infusion over 1 hour, preferably via plastic cannula, into a vein with adequate blood flow to permit rapid dilution and distribution. Do not administer ganciclovir for injection by rapid or bolus intravenous injection which may increase toxicity as a result of excessive plasma levels. The recommended dosage and infusion rate for ganciclovir for injection should not be exceeded. Do not administer the reconstituted ganciclovir for injection solution intramuscularly or subcutaneously because it may result in severe tissue irritation due to high pH [see Description 11 ]. Administration of ganciclovir for injection should be accompanied by adequate hydration. Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. 2.2 Testing Before and During Treatment Females of reproductive potential should undergo pregnancy testing before initiation of treatment with ganciclovir for injection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) , Use in Specific Populations (8.1 , 8.3) ]. Complete blood counts with differential and platelet counts should be performed frequently, especially in patients in whom ganciclovir or other nucleoside analogues have previously resulted in cytopenias, or in whom absolute neutrophil counts are less than 1000 cells/μL at the beginning of treatment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. All patients should be monitored for renal function before and during treatment with ganciclovir for injection and dose should be adjusted as needed [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) , Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. Patients with CMV retinitis should have frequent ophthalmological examinations during treatment with ganciclovir for injection to monitor disease status and for other retinal abnormalities [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. 2.3 Recommended Dosage for Treatment of CMV Retinitis in Adult Patients with Normal Renal Function Induction Dosage The recommended initial dosage of ganciclovir for injection for patients with normal renal function is 5 mg/kg (given intravenously at a constant rate over 1 hour) every 12 hours for 14 to 21 days. Maintenance Dosage Following induction treatment, the recommended maintenance dosage of ganciclovir for injection is 5 mg/kg (given intravenously at a constant rate over 1 hour) once daily for 7 days per week, or 6 mg/kg once daily for 5 days per week. 2.4 Recommended Dosage for Prevention of CMV Disease in Adult Transplant Recipients with Normal Renal Function Induction Dosage The recommended initial dosage of ganciclovir for injection for patients with normal renal function is 5 mg/kg (given intravenously at a constant rate over 1 hour) every 12 hours for 7 to 14 days. Maintenance Dosage Following induction, the recommended maintenance dosage of ganciclovir for injection is 5 mg/kg (given intravenously at a constant rate over 1 hour) once daily for 7 days per week, or 6 mg/kg once daily for 5 days per week until 100 to 120 days post-transplantation. 2.5 Recommended Dosage in Adult Patients with Renal Impairment For patients with impairment of renal function, refer to Table 1 for recommended doses of ganciclovir for injection for induction and maintenance dosage for treatment of CMV retinitis and prevention of CMV disease in recipients. Carefully monitor serum creatinine or creatinine clearance before and during treatment to allow for dosage adjustments in patients with impaired renal function. Table 1. Recommended Induction and Maintenance Dosage in Adult Patients with Renal Impairment Creatinine Clearance Creatinine clearance can be related to serum creatinine by the formulas given below. (mL/min) Ganciclovir for Injection Induction Dose (mg/kg) Dosing Interval (hours) for Induction Ganciclovir for Injection Maintenance Dose (mg/kg) Dosing Interval (hours) for Maintenance Greater than or equal to 70 5 12 5 24 50-69 2.5 12 2.5 24 25-49 2.5 24 1.25 24 10-24 1.25 24 0.625 24 Less than 10 1.25 3 times per week, following hemodialysis 0.625 3 times per week, following hemodialysis Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis Induction dosing for ganciclovir for injection in patients undergoing hemodialysis should not exceed 1.25 mg/kg 3 times per week; and maintenance dosing should not exceed 0.625 mg/kg 3 times per week following each hemodialysis session. Ganciclovir for injection should be given shortly after completion of the hemodialysis session, since hemodialysis has been shown to reduce plasma levels by approximately 50% [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. 2.6 Preparation of Ganciclovir Injection, USP Ganciclovir for Injection, USP must be reconstituted and diluted under the supervision of a healthcare provider and administered as intravenous infusion. Each 10 mL clear glass vial contains 543 mg ganciclovir sodium equivalent to 500 mg of ganciclovir.
Dosage forms and strengths
For injection: Single-dose vial containing 500 mg of ganciclovir as a sterile lyophilized white to off-white powder for reconstitution with 10 mL of preservative-free sterile water for injection, USP for intravenous use. The concentration of ganciclovir in the reconstituted solution is 50 mg/mL [see Dosage and Administration (2.6) ]. For injection: 500 mg of ganciclovir as lyophilized powder in a single-dose vial for reconstitution. ( 3 )
Contraindications
Ganciclovir for Injection, USP is contraindicated in patients who have experienced a clinically significant hypersensitivity reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to ganciclovir, valganciclovir or any component of the formulation. Hypersensitivity to ganciclovir or valganciclovir. ( 4 )
Warnings and precautions
Renal Impairment: Increased serum creatinine levels have been observed with the use of ganciclovir, particularly in elderly patients and transplant recipients receiving concomitant nephrotoxic drugs. Monitor renal function during therapy with ganciclovir for injection, particularly in elderly patients and in patients taking other nephrotoxic drugs, and reduce dosage in patients with renal impairment. ( 5.2 ) 5.1 Hematologic Toxicity Granulocytopenia (neutropenia), anemia, thrombocytopenia and pancytopenia, have been observed in patients treated with ganciclovir. The frequency and severity of these events vary widely in different patient populations [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Ganciclovir for injection is not recommended if the absolute neutrophil count is less than 500 cells/μL, hemoglobin is less than 8 g/dL, or the platelet count is less than 25,000 cells/μL. Ganciclovir for injection should also be used with caution in patients with pre-existing cytopenias and in patients receiving myelosuppressive drugs or irradiation. Granulocytopenia (neutropenia) usually occurs during the first or second week of treatment but may occur at any time during treatment. Cell counts usually begin to recover within 3 to 7 days after discontinuing drug. Colony-stimulating factors have been shown to increase neutrophil and white blood cell counts in patients receiving ganciclovir solution for treatment of CMV retinitis. Due to the frequency of neutropenia, anemia and thrombocytopenia in patients receiving ganciclovir for injection [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ], complete blood counts with differential and platelet counts should be performed frequently in all patients, especially in patients with renal impairment and in patients in whom ganciclovir or other nucleoside analogues have previously resulted in leukopenia, or in whom neutrophil counts are less than 1000 cells/µL at the beginning of treatment [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) ]. 5.2 Renal Impairment Ganciclovir for injection should be used with caution in patients with impaired renal function because the half-life and plasma/serum concentrations of ganciclovir will be increased due to reduced renal clearance. If renal function is impaired, dosage adjustments are recommended [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) , Use in Specific Populations (8.5) ]. Increased serum creatinine levels have been reported in elderly patients and in transplant recipients receiving concomitant nephrotoxic medications (i.e., cyclosporine and amphotericin B). Monitoring renal function during therapy with ganciclovir for injection is essential, especially for elderly patients and those patients receiving concomitant agents that may cause nephrotoxicity [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) , Drug Interactions (7) , Use in Specific Populations (8.5) ]. 5.3 Impairment of Fertility Based on animal data and limited human data, ganciclovir for injection at the recommended human dose (RHD) may cause temporary or permanent inhibition of spermatogenesis in males, and may cause suppression of fertility in females. Advise patients that fertility may be impaired with the use of ganciclovir for injection [see Use in Specific Population (8.1 , 8.3 ), Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1) ]. 5.4 Fetal Toxicity Ganciclovir for injection may cause fetal toxicity when administered to pregnant women based on findings in animal studies. Systemic exposure of ganciclovir in animals at approximately 2 times the RHD caused fetal growth retardation, embryolethality, teratogenicity, and/or maternal toxicity. Teratogenic changes in animals included cleft palate, anophthalmia/microphthalmia, aplastic organs (kidney and pancreas), hydrocephaly and brachygnathia. Women of childbearing potential should be advised to use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 30 days following treatment with ganciclovir for injection. Similarly, men should be advised to practice barrier contraception during and for at least 90 days following treatment with ganciclovir for injection [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3 ), Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1) ]. 5.5 Mutagenesis and Carcinogenesis Animal data indicate that ganciclovir is mutagenic and carcinogenic. Ganciclovir for injection should therefore be considered a potential carcinogen in humans [see Dosage and Administration (2.7) , Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1) ].
Side effects
The following serious adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: Hematologic Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Renal Impairment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Impairment of Fertility [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Fetal Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Mutagenesis and Carcinogenesis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Most common adverse reactions and laboratory abnormalities reported in at least 20% of patients were: pyrexia, diarrhea, leukopenia, nausea, anemia, asthenia, headache, cough, decreased appetite, dyspnea, abdominal pain, sepsis, hyperhidrosis, and blood creatinine increased. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Slate Run Pharmaceuticals, LLC at 1-888-341-9214 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trial Experience in Adult Patients Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The most common adverse reactions and laboratory abnormalities reported in at least 20% of patients were pyrexia, diarrhea, leukopenia, nausea, anemia, asthenia, headache, cough, decreased appetite, dyspnea, abdominal pain, sepsis, hyperhidrosis, and blood creatinine increased. Selected adverse reactions that occurred during clinical trials of ganciclovir are summarized below, according to the participating study patient population. Adverse Reactions in Patients with CMV Retinitis Three controlled, randomized, phase 3 trials comparing intravenous ganciclovir and ganciclovir capsules for maintenance treatment of CMV retinitis have been completed. During these trials, intravenous ganciclovir or ganciclovir capsules were prematurely discontinued in 9% of subjects because of adverse reactions. Selected adverse reactions and laboratory abnormalities reported during the conduct of these controlled trials are summarized in Table 2 and Table 3 , respectively [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ]. Table 2. Pooled Selected Adverse Reactions Reported in ≥5% of Subjects Comparing Intravenous Ganciclovir to Ganciclovir Capsules for Maintenance Treatment of CMV Retinitis Maintenance Treatment Studies Adverse Reaction Intravenous Ganciclovir (n=179) Ganciclovir Capsules (n=326) Pyrexia 48% 38% Diarrhea 44% 41% Leukopenia 41% 29% Anemia 25% 19% Total Catheter Events: 22% 6% Catheter Infection 9% 4% Catheter Sepsis 8% 1% Other Catheter Related Events 5% 1% Sepsis 15% 4% Decreased Appetite 14% 15% Vomiting 13% 13% Infection 13% 9% Hyperhidrosis 12% 11% Chills 10% 7% Neuropathy Peripheral 9% 8% Thrombocytopenia 6% 6% Pruritus 5% 6% Retinal Detachment Retinal detachment has been observed in subjects with CMV retinitis both before and after initiation of therapy with ganciclovir. Its relationship to therapy with ganciclovir is unknown. Retinal detachment occurred in 11% of patients treated with intravenous ganciclovir and in 8% of patients treated with ganciclovir capsules. Table 3. Selected Laboratory Abnormalities in Trials for Treatment of CMV Retinitis CMV Retinitis Treatment Pooled data from Treatment Studies ICM 1653, ICM 1774, and AVI 034 Laboratory Abnormalities Intravenous Ganciclovir Mean time on therapy = 103 days, including allowed re-introduction treatment periods 5 mg/kg/day (N=175) % Ganciclovir Capsules Mean time on therapy = 91 days, including allowed re-introduction treatment periods 3000 mg/day (N=320) % Neutropenia with Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) per μL: <500 25% 18% 500-<749 14% 17% 750-<1000 26% 19% Anemia with Hemoglobin g/dL: <6.5 g/dL 5% 2% 6.5-8.0 16% 10% 8.0-<9.5 26% 25% Serum Creatinine mg/mL: ≥2.5 2% 1% ≥1.5-<2.5 14% 12% Adverse Reactions in Transplant Recipients There have been three controlled clinical trials of intravenous ganciclovir for the prevention of CMV disease in transplant recipients. Selected laboratory abnormalities are summarized in Tables 4 and Table 5 below. Table 4 shows the frequency of neutropenia and thrombocytopenia and Table 5 shows the frequency of elevated serum creatinine values observed in these trials [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ]. Table 4. Laboratory Abnormalities in Controlled Trials - Transplant Recipients who Received Intravenous Ganciclovir, Placebo or Control Laboratory Abnormalities Heart Allograft 1. Study ICM 1496. Mean duration of treatment = 28 days Bone Marrow Allograft Study ICM 1570 and ICM 1689. Mean duration of treatment = 45 days Intravenous Ganciclovir (n=76) Placebo (n=73) Intravenous Ganciclovir (n=57) Control (n=55) Neutropenia Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) per μL: <500 4% 3% 12% 6% 500-1000 3% 8% 29% 17% TOTAL ANC ≤1000/μL 7% 11% 41% 23% Thrombocytopenia Platelet count per μL: <25,000 3% 1% 32% 28% 25,000-50,000 5% 3% 25% 37% TOTAL Platelet Count ≤50,000 μL 8% 4% 57% 65% Table 5. Serum Creatinine Levels in Controlled Trials - Transplant Recipients who Received Intravenous Ganciclovir or Placebo Serum Creatinine Levels (mg/dL) Heart Allograft ICM 1496 Bone Marrow Allograft ICM 1570 Bone Marrow Allograft ICM 1689 Intravenous Ganciclovir (n=76) Placebo (n=73) Intravenous Ganciclovir (n=20) Control (n=20) Intravenous Ganciclovir (n=37) Placebo (n=35) ≥2.5 18% 4% 20% 0% 0% 0% ≥1.5-<2.5 58% 69% 50% 35% 43% 44% Other Adverse Reactions in Clinical Trials in Patients with CMV Retinitis and in Transplant Recipients Adverse drug reactions with intravenous ganciclovir or ganciclovir capsules in controlled clinical studies in either subjects with AIDS or transplant recipients are listed below [see Clinical Studies (14) ]. All these events occurred in at least 3 subjects.
Drug interactions
Drug-drug interaction studies were conducted in patients with normal renal function. Patients with impaired renal function may have increased concentrations of ganciclovir and the coadministered drug following concomitant administration of ganciclovir for injection and drugs excreted by the same pathway as ganciclovir. Therefore, these patients should be closely monitored for toxicity of ganciclovir and the coadministered drug. Established and other potentially significant drug interactions conducted with ganciclovir are listed in Table 6 [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Table 6. Established and Other Potentially Significant Drug Interactions with Ganciclovir Name of the Concomitant Drug Change in the Concentration of Ganciclovir or Concomitant Drug Clinical Comment Imipenem-cilastatin Unknown Coadministration with imipenem-cilastatin is not recommended because generalized seizures have been reported in patients who received ganciclovir and imipenem-cilastatin. Cyclosporine or amphotericin B Unknown Monitor renal function when ganciclovir for injection is coadministered with cyclosporine or amphotericin B because of potential increase in serum creatinine [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) ↔Ganciclovir (in patients with normal renal function) ↔MMF (in patients with normal renal function) Based on increased risk, patients should be monitored for hematological and renal toxicity. Other drugs associated with myelosuppresion or nephrotoxicity (e.g., dapsone, doxorubicin, flucytosine, hydroxyurea, pentamidine, tacrolimus, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, vinblastine, vincristine and zidovudine) Unknown Because of potential for higher toxicity, coadministration with ganciclovir for injection should be considered only if the potential benefits are judged to outweigh the risks. Didanosine ↔ Ganciclovir ↑ Didanosine Patients should be closely monitored for didanosine toxicity (e.g., pancreatitis). Probenecid ↑ Ganciclovir Ganciclovir for injection dose may need to be reduced. Monitor for evidence of ganciclovir toxicity. Imipenem-cilastatin: Seizures were reported in patients receiving ganciclovir and imipenem-cilastatin. Concomitant use is not recommended unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks. ( 7 ) Cyclosporine or amphotericin B: When coadministered with ganciclovir, the risk of nephrotoxicity may be increased. Monitor renal function. ( 5.2 , 7 ) Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF): When coadministered with ganciclovir, the risk of hematological and renal toxicity may be increased. Monitor for ganciclovir and MMF toxicity. ( 7 ) Other drugs associated with myelosuppression or nephrotoxicity: Due to potential for increased toxicity, such drugs should be considered for concomitant use with ganciclovir only if the potential benefits are judged to outweigh the risks. ( 7 ) Didanosine: Ganciclovir coadministered with didanosine may increase didanosine levels. Monitor for didanosine toxicity (e.g., pancreatitis). ( 7 ) Probenecid: May increase ganciclovir levels. Monitor for evidence of ganciclovir toxicity.
Use in specific populations
Lactation: Breastfeeding is not recommended with use of Ganciclovir for Injection, USP. ( 8.2 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary In animal studies, ganciclovir caused maternal and fetal toxicity and embryo-fetal mortality in pregnant mice and rabbits as well as teratogenicity in rabbits at exposures two times the exposure at the recommended human dose (RHD) [see Data ]. Although placental transfer of ganciclovir has been shown to occur based on ex vivo experiments with human placenta and in at least one case report in a pregnant woman, no adequate human data are available to establish whether ganciclovir for injection poses a risk to pregnancy outcomes. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in the clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo-Fetal Risk Most maternal CMV infections are asymptomatic or they may be associated with a self-limited mononucleosis-like syndrome. However, in immunocompromised patients (i.e., transplant patients or patients with AIDS), CMV infections may be symptomatic and may result in significant maternal morbidity and mortality. The transmission of CMV to the fetus is a result of maternal viremia and transplacental infection. Perinatal infection can also occur from exposure of the neonate to CMV shedding in the genital tract. Approximately 10% of children with congenital CMV infection are symptomatic at birth. Mortality in symptomatic infants is about 10% and approximately 50 to 90% of symptomatic surviving newborns experience significant morbidity, including mental retardation, sensorineural hearing loss, microcephaly, seizures, and other medical problems. The risk of congenital CMV infection resulting from primary maternal CMV infection may be higher and of greater severity than that resulting from maternal reactivation of CMV infection. Data Animal Data Daily intravenous doses of ganciclovir were administered to pregnant mice (108 mg/kg/day) and rabbits (60 mg/kg/day), and also to female mice (90 mg/kg) prior to mating, during gestation, and during lactation. Fetal resorptions were present in at least 85% of rabbits and mice. Additional effects observed in rabbits included fetal growth retardation, embryolethality, teratogenicity, and/or maternal toxicity. Teratogenic changes included cleft palate, anophthalmia/microphthalmia, aplastic organs (kidney and pancreas), hydrocephaly, and brachygnathia. In pre/postnatal development studies in mice, there were maternal/fetal toxicity and embryolethality which included fetal effects of hypoplasia of the testes and seminal vesicles in the male offspring, as well as pathologic changes in the nonglandular region of the stomach. The systemic exposure (AUC) of ganciclovir during these studies was approximately 2 times (pregnant mice and rabbits) and 1.7 times (pre/postnatal mice) the exposure in humans at the RHD [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1) ]. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary No data are available regarding the presence of ganciclovir in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production. When ganciclovir was administered to lactating rats, ganciclovir was present in milk [see Data]. Advise nursing mothers that breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with ganciclovir for injection because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5) , Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1) ]. Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that HIV-infected mothers not breastfeed their infants to avoid potential postnatal transmission of HIV. Data Animal Data Ganciclovir administered intravenously (at 0.13 mg/h) to lactating rats (on lactation day 15) resulted in passive transfer into milk. The milk-to-serum ratio for ganciclovir at steady state was 1.6 ± 0.33. 8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential Pregnancy Testing Females of reproductive potential should undergo pregnancy testing before initiation of treatment with ganciclovir for injection [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) , Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ]. Contraception Females Because of the mutagenic and teratogenic potential of ganciclovir, females of reproductive potential should be advised to use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 30 days following treatment with ganciclovir for injection [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) , Warnings and Precautions (5.4 ), Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1) ]. Males Because of its mutagenic potential, males should be advised to practice barrier contraception during and for at least 90 days following treatment with ganciclovir for injection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) , Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1) ]. Infertility Ganciclovir for injection at the recommended doses may cause temporary or permanent female and male infertility [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) , Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1) ]. Data Human Data In a small, open-label, non-randomized clinical study, adult male renal transplant patients receiving valganciclovir (the prodrug of ganciclovir) for CMV prophylaxis for up to 200 days post-transplantation were compared to an untreated control group. Patients were followed-up for six months after valganciclovir discontinuation. Among 24 evaluable patients in the valganciclovir group, the mean sperm density at the end of treatment visit decreased by 11 million/mL from baseline; whereas, among 14 evaluable patients in the control group the mean sperm density increased by 33 million/mL.
Pregnancy
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary In animal studies, ganciclovir caused maternal and fetal toxicity and embryo-fetal mortality in pregnant mice and rabbits as well as teratogenicity in rabbits at exposures two times the exposure at the recommended human dose (RHD) [see Data ]. Although placental transfer of ganciclovir has been shown to occur based on ex vivo experiments with human placenta and in at least one case report in a pregnant woman, no adequate human data are available to establish whether ganciclovir for injection poses a risk to pregnancy outcomes. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in the clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo-Fetal Risk Most maternal CMV infections are asymptomatic or they may be associated with a self-limited mononucleosis-like syndrome. However, in immunocompromised patients (i.e., transplant patients or patients with AIDS), CMV infections may be symptomatic and may result in significant maternal morbidity and mortality. The transmission of CMV to the fetus is a result of maternal viremia and transplacental infection. Perinatal infection can also occur from exposure of the neonate to CMV shedding in the genital tract. Approximately 10% of children with congenital CMV infection are symptomatic at birth. Mortality in symptomatic infants is about 10% and approximately 50 to 90% of symptomatic surviving newborns experience significant morbidity, including mental retardation, sensorineural hearing loss, microcephaly, seizures, and other medical problems. The risk of congenital CMV infection resulting from primary maternal CMV infection may be higher and of greater severity than that resulting from maternal reactivation of CMV infection. Data Animal Data Daily intravenous doses of ganciclovir were administered to pregnant mice (108 mg/kg/day) and rabbits (60 mg/kg/day), and also to female mice (90 mg/kg) prior to mating, during gestation, and during lactation. Fetal resorptions were present in at least 85% of rabbits and mice. Additional effects observed in rabbits included fetal growth retardation, embryolethality, teratogenicity, and/or maternal toxicity. Teratogenic changes included cleft palate, anophthalmia/microphthalmia, aplastic organs (kidney and pancreas), hydrocephaly, and brachygnathia. In pre/postnatal development studies in mice, there were maternal/fetal toxicity and embryolethality which included fetal effects of hypoplasia of the testes and seminal vesicles in the male offspring, as well as pathologic changes in the nonglandular region of the stomach. The systemic exposure (AUC) of ganciclovir during these studies was approximately 2 times (pregnant mice and rabbits) and 1.7 times (pre/postnatal mice) the exposure in humans at the RHD [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1) ].
Pediatric use
8.4 Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness of ganciclovir for injection have not been established in pediatric patients. A total of 120 pediatric patients with serious CMV infections participated in clinical trials. Granulocytopenia and thrombocytopenia were the most common adverse reactions. The pharmacokinetic characteristics of ganciclovir after administration of ganciclovir for injection were studied in 27 neonates (aged 2 to 49 days) and 10 pediatric patients, aged 9 months to 12 years. In neonates, the pharmacokinetic parameters after ganciclovir intravenous doses of 4 mg/kg (n=14) and 6 mg/kg (n=13) were C max 5.5 ± 1.6 and 7.0 ± 1.6 mcg/mL, systemic clearance 3.14 ± 1.75 and 3.56 ± 1.27 mL/min/kg, and t 1/2 of 2.4 hours (harmonic mean) for both doses, respectively. In pediatric patients 9 months to 12 years of age, the pharmacokinetic characteristics of ganciclovir were the same after single and multiple (every 12 hours) intravenous doses (5 mg/kg). The steady-state volume of distribution was 0.64 ± 0.22 L/kg, C max was 7.9 ± 3.9 mcg/mL, systemic clearance was 4.7 ± 2.2 mL/min/kg, and t 1/2 was 2.4 ± 0.7 hours. Although the pharmacokinetics of intravenous ganciclovir in pediatric patients were similar to those observed in adults, the safety and efficacy of ganciclovir at these exposures in pediatric patients have not been established.
Geriatric use
8.5 Geriatric Use Clinical studies of ganciclovir did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy. Ganciclovir is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of toxic reactions to this drug may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because renal clearance decreases with age, ganciclovir should be administered to elderly patients with special consideration of their renal status. Renal function should be monitored and dosage adjustments should be made accordingly [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) , Warnings and Precautions (5.2) , Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].
Overdosage
Reports of adverse reactions after overdoses with ganciclovir for injection, some with fatal outcomes, have been received from clinical trials and during post-marketing experience. One or more of the following adverse reactions has been reported with overdoses: Hematological toxicity: myelosuppression including pancytopenia, leukopenia, neutropenia, granulocytopenia, thrombocytopenia, bone marrow failure Hepatotoxicity: hepatitis, liver function disorder Renal toxicity: worsening of hematuria in a patient with pre-existing renal impairment, acute kidney injury, elevated creatinine Gastrointestinal toxicity: abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting Neurotoxicity: seizure Since ganciclovir is dialyzable, dialysis may be useful in reducing serum concentrations in patients who have received an overdose of ganciclovir [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Adequate hydration should be maintained. The use of hematopoietic growth factors should be considered in patients with cytopenias [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ].
Description
Ganciclovir for injection contains ganciclovir, in the form of the sodium salt for intravenous injection. Ganciclovir is a synthetic guanine derivative active against cytomegalovirus (CMV). Chemically, ganciclovir is 9-[[2-hydroxy-1-(hydroxymethyl)-ethoxy]methyl]guanine and ganciclovir sodium is 9-[[2-hydroxy-1-(hydroxymethyl)-ethoxy]methyl]guanine, monosodium salt. The chemical structures of ganciclovir sodium and ganciclovir are: Ganciclovir is a white to off-white crystalline powder. Ganciclovir is a polar hydrophilic compound with a solubility of 2.6 mg/mL in water at 25°C and an n-octanol/water partition coefficient of 0.022. The pK a s for ganciclovir are 2.2 and 9.4. Ganciclovir for injection (ganciclovir), formulated as monosodium salt, using sodium hydroxide as a salt forming agent, is a sterile white to off-white lyophilized powder. The lyophilized powder has an aqueous solubility of greater than 50 mg/mL at 25°C. At physiological pH, ganciclovir sodium exists as the un-ionized form with a solubility of approximately 6 mg/mL at 37°C. Each vial contains 543 mg ganciclovir sodium equivalent to 500 mg ganciclovir. Inactive ingredients may include hydrochloric acid (QS) and sodium hydroxide (QS) added to adjust the pH. All doses in this package insert are specified in terms of ganciclovir T:\SPL Documents\Ganciclovir Injection-spl\Chemical Structures.jpg
Mechanism of action
12.1 Mechanism of Action Ganciclovir is an antiviral drug with activity against CMV [see Microbiology (12.4) ].
How supplied
How Supplied Ganciclovir for Injection, USP is supplied in 10 mL sterile single-dose vials, each containing 543 mg ganciclovir sodium equivalent to 500 mg of ganciclovir as a white to off-white powder. The concentration of ganciclovir in the reconstituted solution is 50 mg/mL. Because ganciclovir shares some of the properties of antitumor agents (i.e., carcinogenicity and mutagenicity), consideration should be given to handling and disposal according to guidelines issued for antineoplastic drugs. Ganciclovir for Injection, USP is supplied in cartons of 25 vials (NDC 70436-231-55). Storage Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Store reconstituted solution in the vial at 25°C (77°F) for no longer than 12 hours. Do not refrigerate or freeze. Discard any unused portion of the reconstituted solution. Store diluted infusion solution under refrigeration at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F) for no longer than 24 hours. Do not freeze.
Patient information
Hematologic Toxicity Inform patients that ganciclovir may cause hematologic toxicity including granulocytopenia (neutropenia), anemia, and thrombocytopenia. Inform patients that their blood counts and platelet counts should be closely monitored while on treatment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Impairment of Renal Function Inform patients that ganciclovir has been associated with decreased renal function and that serum creatinine or creatinine clearance should be monitored while on treatment to allow for dosage adjustment in patients with renal impairment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. Impairment of Fertility Inform patients that ganciclovir may cause temporary or permanent infertility in humans [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) , Use in Specific Populations (8.3) ]. Pregnancy and Contraception Advise female patients to use effective contraception during and for at least 30 days following treatment with ganciclovir for injection. Similarly, advise men to practice barrier contraception during and for at least 90 days following treatment with ganciclovir for injection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) , Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3) ]. Carcinogenicity Inform patients that ganciclovir should be considered a potential carcinogen [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5 )]. Drug Interactions Inform patients that ganciclovir for injection may interact with other drugs. Advise patients to report to their healthcare provider the use of any other medication [see Drug Interactions (7) ]. Impairment of Cognitive Ability Based on the adverse reaction profile, ganciclovir may affect cognitive abilities, including the ability to drive and operate machinery, as seizures, dizziness, and/or confusion have been reported with the use of ganciclovir [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Opthalmological Examination in Patients with CMV Retinitis Inform patients that ganciclovir is not a cure for CMV retinitis, and they may continue to experience progression of retinitis during or following treatment. Advise patients to have frequent ophthalmological follow-up examinations while being treated with ganciclovir for injection. Some patients may require more frequent ophthalmological follow-up [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) , Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Lactation Advise nursing mothers not to breastfeed if they are receiving ganciclovir for injection because of the potential for serious adverse events in nursing infants and because HIV can be passed to the baby in breast milk [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2) ]. Rx only Manufactured by: Hainan Poly Pharm Co., Ltd., Guilinyang Economic Development Zone, Haikou, Hainan, China 571127 Distributed by: Slate Run Pharmaceuticals, LLC, Columbus, Ohio 43215 10000485/01 Revised: 05/2024 novaplus logo
Label text from the FDA structured product label by Slate Run Pharmaceuticals, LLC (revised Jan 2, 2025). Long sections are shortened; the complete label is on DailyMed.
Active ingredients
- Ganciclovir Sodium in 1 product
ganciclovir sodium NDC products (1)
| NDC | Strength & form | Labeler | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 70436-231 | Ganciclovir Sodium 500 mg/10mL Injection, Powder, Lyophilized, For Solution | Slate Run Pharmaceuticals, LLC | ANDA |
Frequently asked questions
What is ganciclovir sodium used for?
Ganciclovir for Injection, USP is a deoxynucleoside analogue cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA polymerase inhibitor indicated for the: Treatment of CMV retinitis in immunocompromised adult patients, including patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). ( 1.1 ) Prevention of CMV disease in adult transplant recipients at risk for CMV disease. ( 1.2 ) 1.1 Treatment of CMV Retinitis Ganciclovir…
What are the side effects of ganciclovir sodium?
The following serious adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: Hematologic Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Renal Impairment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Impairment of Fertility [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Fetal Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Mutagenesis and Carcinogenesis [see Warnings and Precautions… See the full label for the complete list.
Who makes ganciclovir sodium?
ganciclovir sodium is listed by 1 labeler in the FDA NDC directory, including Slate Run Pharmaceuticals, LLC.