Herpigel 0.15% (Ophthalmic Gel)

Indications

• Topical eye antiviral
• Treatment of acute herpetic keratitis

Pharmacology

• Active ingredient: Ganciclovir
• Inhibits DNA replication by herpes simplex viruses
• Transformed by viral and cellular thymidine kinases (TK) to ganciclovir triphosphate
• Acts as an antiviral agent by inhibiting the synthesis of viral DNA

Dosage & Administration

• Recommended dosing regimen: 1 drop in the affected eye 5 times per day until corneal ulcer heals, then 1 drop 3 times per day for 7 days
• Approximately every 3 hours while awake

Contraindications

• Known hypersensitivity to Ganciclovir

Side Effects

• Blurred vision
• Eye irritation
• Punctate keratitis
• Conjunctival hyperemia

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy Category C
• Embryotoxic in rabbits and mice following intravenous administration
• Teratogenic in rabbits
• Caution recommended for nursing mothers

Precautions & Warnings

• Indicated for topical eye use only
• Patients should not wear contact lenses if signs or symptoms of herpetic keratitis are present

Use in Special Populations

• Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy not established in patients below 2 years of age
• Geriatric Use: No overall differences observed in safety or effectiveness between elderly and younger patients

Overdose Effects

• Local or accidental oral administration overdose is not likely

Therapeutic Class

• Ophthalmic Anti-viral Products

Storage Conditions

• Store at 15°C to 30°C in a dry place protected from light
• Contents should not be used more than one month after first opening of the tube

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