Medicines
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Foscavir
Foscarnet is an antiviral medication primarily used to treat cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in immunocompromised individuals, particularly those with HIV/AIDS. It belongs to the class of pyrophosphate analogues and inhibits viral DNA polymerase and reverse transcriptase, preventing viral replication. It is administered intravenously and is often used as a second-line treatment when other antivirals are ineffective or not tolerated.
For the treatment of cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in immunocompromised patients, particularly those with HIV/AIDS, and for acyclovir-resistant herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infections.
Foscarnet can cause renal impairment, seizures, and electrolyte abnormalities (e.g., hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia, hypokalemia, and hypophosphatemia). Patients should be carefully monitored for these adverse effects.
Outcome:
Increased risk of renal impairment
Mechanism:
Additive nephrotoxicity
Outcome:
Increased risk of anemia and neutropenia
Mechanism:
Additive myelosuppression
Outcome:
Decreased foscarnet absorption
Mechanism:
Unknown
Most likely new formulation: Liposomal foscarnet for improved delivery and reduced nephrotoxicity (2025, 70% confidence)
Based on current usage trends and emerging resistance patterns, there is a 20% likelihood of increased restrictions on foscarnet use in the next 5 years.
Antiviral, Pyrophosphate Analogue
Phosphonoformate