Sometimes our immune system becomes a little weak, especially after a major surgery like an organ transplant. At times like these, even viruses that usually don't bother us can enter the body and cause serious infections. In such special cases, today we are going to talk about a special medicine that doctors recommend to protect against those viral infections. The name of that medicine is Letermovir.
What kind of medicine is Letermovir?
Simply put, Letermovir is an antiviral drug. It doesn't work on all viruses, but it specifically targets a type of virus called Cytomegalovirus (CMV) . Although this CMV virus usually doesn't affect healthy people much, it can cause serious infections in people with weakened immune systems.
The risk of CMV infection is particularly high after treatments such as a bone marrow transplant. Letermovir is used to prevent that risk.
This medication is available in the market under the brand name ``(Prevymis)``. But no matter what name it is, you can only use it if a doctor prescribes it for you.
Things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before starting Letermovir, it is very important to discuss your complete health history with your doctor. Be sure to mention the following in particular:
- If you have kidney disease .
- If you have liver disease .
- If you have had an allergic reaction to Letermovir or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant, or trying to get pregnant .
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
Based on this information, the doctor will decide whether this medication is right for you or not, or whether the dosage needs to be changed.
How should I use the medicine?
Okay, now let's see how exactly to use this medicine.
- Swallow this tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not break, crush, or chew the tablet.
- You can take this with or without food. However, if you experience stomach upset, it is best to take it with food.
- Take your medicine every day, at the prescribed time and at the prescribed intervals. Never take more than the prescribed amount.
- Do not stop taking the medication without your doctor's advice. You may need to finish the full course.
Should this medicine be given to children?
If you are giving this medicine to children, you should talk to a pediatrician about it and follow his or her advice. Special care may be required.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
Don't worry. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is very close to your next dose (for example, within a few hours), skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two pills at once.
Very important: Other drugs that may interact with this medicine (Drug Interactions)
Letermovir is a drug that can interact with many other medications. This means that when taken with other medications, the effects of Letermovir or the effects of the other medication may change, or serious side effects may occur.
Therefore, you should tell your doctor about all the medications you take (prescribed by doctors, purchased from the pharmacy, traditional medicines, vitamins, herbal products) .
The two tables below will make this more clear.
| Warning! Never take Letermovir with this medicine! | |
|---|---|
| Pimozide | Ergot alkaloids (e.g. Ergotamine) |
| St. John's Wort (herbal product) | Bosentan |
| Some medications for HIV/AIDS (e.g. Efavirenz, Nevirapine) | Some medications for infections (e.g., Rifampin, Nafcillin) |
| Some medications for seizures (e.g. Carbamazepine, Phenytoin) | Modafinil, Thioridazine |
| Be careful! Tell your doctor if you are taking Letermovir with this medicine. | |
|---|---|
| Cholesterol-lowering medications (e.g., Atorvastatin, Simvastatin) | Diabetes medications (e.g. Glyburide, Rosiglitazone) |
| Medicines that prevent blood clotting (e.g. Warfarin) | Amiodarone, Quinidine, given for heart disease |
| Immune-suppressing medications (e.g., Cyclosporine, Tacrolimus, Sirolimus) | Painkillers (e.g. Fentanyl, Alfentanil) |
| Medicines for stomach upset/gastritis (e.g. Omeprazole, Pantoprazole) | Midazolam, Voriconazole |
This list is not complete. Therefore, it is your responsibility to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Things to be aware of while taking the medicine and side effects
While taking this medication, your doctor may do things like blood work to monitor your condition.
Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately
- Severe allergic reactions : Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as skin rash, itching, swelling of the eyes, lips, tongue, or face.
Common side effects that may occur and should be reported to the doctor if they persist
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Cough
- Tiredness
- Swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet
If these symptoms persist or if they bother you, talk to your doctor.
What if you take too much medicine? (Overdose)
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Alternatively, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for immediate advice.
How to store medicine?
- Keep out of the reach of children .
- Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius).
- Throw away expired medicine.
Take-Home Message
- Letermovir is a special medicine that protects against a virus called CMV. It should only be used on the recommendation of a doctor.
- Before starting this medication, tell your doctor about all your health information and all other medications you are taking.
- Swallow the pill whole, without breaking, crushing, or chewing it. Never take a double dose if you miss a dose.
- This medicine is for you only. Do not share it with others for any reason.
- If you notice any signs of an allergy (such as facial swelling, hives), seek medical advice immediately.
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