Cytomegalovirus

Question 1

general information

Answer 1

• ssDNA virus
• Infection is usually in immunocompromised patients eg pregnant ,hiv ect
• infections are usually reactivated
• treatment usually begins when >3000 copies /ml

Question 2

List the drug used to treat CMV

Answer 2

Gancyclovir ( inhibits viral DNA polymerase ) and it is a competitor for dGTP)

Question 3

Discuss the pharmacokinetics of Gancyclovir

Answer 3

• Poor absorption orally, must be admin via IV

* Excreted via urine

Question 4

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF GANCYCLOVIR

Answer 4

Bone marrow toxicity eg anemia, neutropenia

Question 5

What are the pharmacokinetics

of valganciclovir

Answer 5

• Good oral bioavailability
• hydrolysis in intestine and liver leads to good levels of gancyclovir
• used for maintenance of gancyclovir

Has same side effects as gancyclovir