Ganciclovir
Ganciclovir is an antiviral agent used primarily for the management of **ocular feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1)** infections. In vitro studies indicate that ganciclovir is at least 10 times more effective against FHV-1 than aciclovir. > **Clinical Warning:** It cannot eradicate latent viral infections. While anecdotal reports of its topical use are promising, neither the safety nor the pharmacokinetics has been fully reported in cats. In refractory and severe cases of FHV-1 ulceration, combined therapy including topical or systemic antiviral medication can be used.
Mechanism: Ganciclovir inhibits **viral replication** by targeting **viral DNA polymerase**. It depends on **viral thymidine kinase** for initial phosphorylation → converted to active ganciclovir triphosphate by cellular enzymes → competitive inhibition of viral DNA polymerase → termination of viral DNA chain elongation.
Dosing by species
- Ocular feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1) infections · Apply small amount to affected eye · topical · q4-6h · maximum 3 weeks · In refractory and severe cases, combined therapy can be used.
Doses are a clinical reference for licensed veterinary professionals. Always confirm against the current label and the individual patient.
Routes of administration
Adverse effects
- Ocular irritation
Monitoring
- Resolution of clinical ocular signs (e.g., healing of corneal ulcers)
- Signs of ocular irritation or discomfort
Overdose
No specific information available. Overdose via topical ophthalmic route is unlikely to cause systemic toxicity, but may increase the risk of severe ocular irritation.
VetSheet drug reference is intended for licensed veterinary professionals as a clinical decision-support aid, not a substitute for professional judgement or the manufacturer’s current label.