Zirgan is an ophthalmic gel containing the active ingredient ganciclovir at a concentration of 0.15%. It is part of the antiviral drug class and is formulated as a sterile topical gel for use in the eyes. Key inactive ingredients include carbomer homopolymer, water for injection, sodium hydroxide, mannitol, and benzalkonium chloride.

How should I use this medication?

This medication is only for use in the eye. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper or tube to your eye, fingertips, or other surfaces. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. Close the eye gently to spread the drops. Do not use your medication more often than directed. Finish the full course of medication prescribed by your care team even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop using except on the advice of your care team.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

• Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
• If you cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put it in the trash, empty the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• New or worsening eye pain, redness, irritation, or discharge

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Blurry vision
• Eye irritation or itching

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Wear contact lenses
• An unusual or allergic reaction to ganciclovir, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye products without talking to your care team.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

This medication can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or sun tanning beds/booths. If your eyes are more sensitive to light, wear sunglasses.

You should not wear contact lenses while you have signs and symptoms of an eye infection. If you wear contact lenses, ask your care team when you can wear your lenses again.

Stop using this medication immediately and call your care team if you notice signs of an allergic reaction.

To prevent the spread of infection, do not share eye products, towels, or washcloths.