GENERIC NAME: CIDOFOVIR INJECTION (sye-DOH-foh-veer)
BRAND NAME(S): Vistide
Warning | Medication Uses | Other Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
WARNING: Cidofovir is FDA-approved only to treat CMV retinitis (an eye infection) in people with AIDS. This medication can cause serious (sometimes fatal) kidney problems or blood disorders (e.g., granulocytopenia). To decrease the chances of these occurring, intravenous normal saline and probenecid must be given with each dose of cidofovir. Immediately notify your doctor if you have symptoms of an infection such as persistent sore throat or fever, or if you have a change in amount of urine. Medications that cause kidney problems (e.g., gentamicin, vancomycin) must not be used while using cidofovir. Kidney function tests must be given within 48 hours before each dose. Blood tests may be performed during therapy.
USES: This medication is used in the treatment of infection with cytomegalovirus (CMV) in the eye in patients with HIV infection. No cure exists for CMV infection and the eye disorder may or may not improve with this treatment.
OTHER USES: This medication may also be used to treat herpes simplex infections in cases where other medications have failed.
HOW TO USE: Initial treatment is usually given intravenously (IV) over 1 hour once weekly for two consecutive weeks. Long-term maintenance doses usually are given over 1 hour every other week. Probenecid is taken by mouth with food with each cidofovir dose. Four tablets (2 grams) are taken 3 hours before cidofovir, and 2 tablets (1 gram) are taken at 2 hours and again at 8 hours with food after the cidofovir dose is completed (total 4 grams). The probenecid is very important in order to help the cidofovir work properly. The probenecid must be taken exactly as directed each time you receive cidofovir. Fluid needs to be given by IV with each cidofovir dose. The saline is given over 1 to 2 hours just before the cidofovir. Before using this medication visually check for any particles or discoloration. This indicates contamination and the solution should not be used.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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