foscarnet
Last reviewed 01/2018
Indications:
- CMV retinitis in patients with AIDS in whom ganciclovir is inappropriate
- immunocompromised patients with acyclovir - resistant HSV infections - especially, bone marrow transplant recipients
Action:
- inhibits DNA polymerase of HSV and CMV
Cautions:
- monitor serum creatinine and calcium
- ensure adequate hydration
- renal impairment
- hypocalcaemia
Contra-indications:
- pregnancy and breast feeding
Side-effects:
- nausea and vomiting
- hypocalcaemia
- decreased haemoglobin concentration
- hypoglycaemia, convulsions and thrombophlebitis if given undiluted by peripheral vein
- headache
- fatigue
- rash
- impairment of renal function including acute renal failure
Routes of administration:
- i.v. infusion