Ganciclovir

Generic for Zirgan

Without insurance

With insurance

Compare prices at 50K+ pharmacies nationwide

Most insurance accepted

Board-certified clinicians

No hidden fees

Available nationwide

What is Ganciclovir?

Ganciclovir is a prescription antiviral ophthalmic gel used to treat acute herpetic keratitis—corneal ulcers and dendritic lesions caused by herpes simplex virus in the eye. Unlike many eye drops, it's formulated as a gel that stays in contact with the ocular surface longer, providing sustained antiviral drug delivery with each application. Ganciclovir works by blocking viral DNA polymerase, preventing the herpes virus from replicating within infected corneal cells. It's applied five times daily until the ulcer heals, then three times daily for an additional week, and is the only antiviral gel approved for this indication in the United States.

Viral DNA polymerase inhibition

Ganciclovir is phosphorylated by viral kinase inside HSV-infected cells and then blocks viral DNA polymerase—halting viral DNA replication and preventing the spread of herpes simplex virus through corneal tissue.

Gel formulation for sustained ocular contact

Unlike aqueous eye drops that drain quickly from the eye surface, Ganciclovir's gel vehicle maintains prolonged contact with the cornea—improving drug residence time and antiviral exposure at the site of infection.

Corneal ulcer healing support

By suppressing viral replication in infected corneal epithelium, Ganciclovir stops the active herpetic lesion from expanding and allows corneal epithelial cells to heal—reducing the risk of vision-threatening corneal scarring from recurrent herpetic keratitis.

Ongoing support, always available.

Your care doesn’t end after your visit. Message your care team anytime to discuss side effects, ask questions about your medication, or request a refill.

We stay proactive so your care stays steady — adjusting your plan as needed and keeping you informed every step of the way.

Thousands of customers trust us

“I feel like I'm finally on the right path to improving my health with the right support now! It's so refreshing and reassuring.”

—Emerald, Texas

“My experience with General Medicine was amazing. The understanding and care that was taken to figure out what is exactly going on with me. I feel like a weight has been lifted off of me.”

—Kaylee, Louisiana

“I couldn't be happier with my experience with General Medicine! They are fast, responsive, kind and knowledgeable. It is much easier, more affordable and faster.”

—Nika, Tennessee

Dive deeper: get the support you need

Your health rarely comes down to just one thing. If your clinician identifies related needs during your visit, we can help address them through additional services.

Medications

We will write your prescription and send it to your pharmacy

Lab tests

See cost up front and book your lab test instantly

Dermatology

Get a specialist consult or talk to a clinician about your condition

Travel needs

Going on a big trip? Get the vaccines and medications you need

Everyday care

No waitlist, rushed visits, or hidden fees—get care fast.

Frequently asked questions

What is General Medicine?

What can General Medicine help with?

General Medicine provides convenient care for all of your of health needs, including common and chronic conditions, specialist consultations, and preventative care. We make it easy to get the care you need—whether it's getting the right prescriptions, labs or imaging, or connecting you with the right specialists or in-person providers—ensuring your healthcare experience is seamless and stress-free.

How much does General Medicine cost?

Who is the care team at General Medicine?

How do you protect my health information?