Long-term ganciclovir maintenance therapy has been recommended for CMV colitis or esophagitis following induction treatment. Oral ganciclovir is a likely candidate for maintenance because of its possible therapeutic value and ease of administration, but an optimum dose has not been determined. Since oral ganciclovir has a low bioavailability and is more soluble in an acid pH environment, the addition of glutamic acid hydrochloride may enhance gastrointestinal absorption of this drug.