Zirgan Dosage, forms & strengths
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Get started todayZirgan (ganciclovir ophthalmic gel) is a topical antiviral medication that is manufactured by Bausch & Lomb Incorporated. It is FDA-approved to treat adults and pediatric patients 2 years and older with acute herpetic keratitis (dendritic ulcers).
What is the mechanism of action of Zirgan?
Zirgan works by competitively inhibiting DNA replication of the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Zigran is not a cure for the herpes virus and will not treat symptoms of herpes in other parts of the body.
Zirgan dosage forms and strengths
- 0.15% topical ophthalmic gel
Zirgan dosage
The recommended dosing regimen for Zirgan is 1 drop in the affected eye(s) 5 times a day (around every 3 hours while you are awake) until the corneal ulcer heals. Once it is healed you will use 1 drop in the affected eye(s) 3 times a day for 7 days. This is the recommended dose for adults and pediatric patients 2 years of age and older.
Zirgan dosage restrictions
- There is no dosage adjustment recommended for patients with kidney or liver impairment.
How to take Zirgan
- Read the Full Prescribing Information, Drug Information, Monograph, and Medication Guide that comes with this medication.
- Use this medication exactly as your healthcare provider prescribes it to you. Do not change your dose or stop taking Zigran without talking with them.
- Zigran is for topical ophthalmic use only.
- Wash your hands before and after each use. Tilt your head back and pull down on your lower eyelid to make a small pocket. Squeeze a drop out of the bottle as you look away from the dropper and then close your eyes. Keep your eyes closed and do not blink as you gently press your finger to the inner corner of your eye for 1 to 2 minutes.
- To prevent contamination, do not touch the dropper on any surface, including the eye.
- If you miss a dose of Zirgan, use it as soon immediately. If it is almost time for your next dose of Zigran, skip it and start back on your normal dosing schedule.
Zirgan dosage FAQs
What are some side effects of Zirgan?
Some common adverse reactions to Zirgan in clinical trials include:
- Blurred vision
- Eye irritation and pain
- Eye redness (conjunctival hyperemia)
Zirgan can sometimes cause more serious side effects, including:
- Severe hypersensitivity reactions (hives, angioedema, and trouble breathing)
Contact your doctor for medical advice about any side effects or worsening symptoms you experience while taking Zirgan. You can report your side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
What are some drug interactions with Zirgan?
Concomitant use of Zirgan with other medications can change how they work or increase the frequency and severity of side effects. Make sure your healthcare professional is aware of all the prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are currently taking.
Are there any contraindications or precautions with Zirgan?
Zirgan is contraindicated in patients who have a known allergy to ganciclovir or any of the inactive ingredients which include benzalkonium chloride. You should also let your doctor know if you have an active infection somewhere other than your eyes. Do not wear contact lenses while on this medication or if you have signs or symptoms of an eye infection.
Is it safe to use Zirgan while pregnant or breastfeeding?
There have been no studies performed involving the use of Zirgan in pregnant women. It is not known if Zirgan is found in the breast milk of nursing mothers or the effects it may have on the breastfed infant during lactation. You should always discuss the risks and benefits of any medication with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
Can you use Zirgan to treat pink eye?
No, Zirgan is not used to treat conjunctivitis or pink eye. It is used to treat corneal infections caused by the herpes simplex virus. Pink eye affects a different part of your eye called the conjunctiva and can be caused by bacteria or viruses other than herpes.
Does Zirgan need to be refrigerated?
No, Zirgan does not require refrigeration. It should be stored at room temperature between 59° to 77°F (15° to 25°C) away from moisture, heat, and direct light.
What is the cost of Zirgan?
A 5g tube of Zirgan 0.15% ophthalmic gel is around $500.
What is the maximum dose of Zirgan?
The maximum dose of Zirgan is 1 drop in the affected eye(s) 5 times a day until the corneal ulcer heals.
Related resources for Zirgan dosage
- https://reference.medscape.com/drug/vitrasert-zirgan-ganciclovir-ophthalmic-343576
- https://www.zirganpro.com/
- https://www.zirganpro.com/globalassets/pdf/packageinserts/pharma/zirganpackageinsert.pdf
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-153994/zirgan-ophthalmic-eye/details
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ganciclovir-ophthalmic-route/proper-use/drg-20073205?p=1
- https://www.pdr.net/drug-summary/Zirgan-ganciclovir-86#15