Foscavir injection is an antiviral drug used for the treatment of the symptoms of cytomegalovirus infection of the eyes in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome. This drug will only help control worsening of the symptoms.
Herpes simplex virus infections of the skin and mucous membranes in people who are immunocompromised and whose infections did not improve with other treatment can also be treated with this drug. This drug may also be used for other serious viral infections but it does not work in treating certain viruses, such as the common cold or the flu.
This medicine is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of your healthcare professional.
Before using Foscavir, the risks and benefits for your body should be discussed with your healthcare provider. Inform your healthcare provider for any allergic reactions to these drugs or any other drugs, foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals.
Carefully read the label of non-prescription drugs for any possible allergic reaction or contraindications. Studies in children regarding the correlation of age to the effects of foscarnet injection have not been performed while safety and efficacy have not been established. Studies in the elderly have not demonstrated any geriatric-specific problems that would limit the utility of foscarnet injection.
Adjustments in the dose of the elderly may be required since they are more likely to have age-related kidney problems. Adverse effects have been reported in animal studies but studies in pregnant women or animals are still inadequate. Infant risk is still undetermined when using this drug during breastfeeding.
Discuss with your healthcare professional about the potential risks and benefits of taking this drug while breastfeeding. Drugs should not be taken together to prevent any interactions but in necessary cases inquire your healthcare provider regarding the adjustments in dosage or any other necessary precautions to prevent any unwanted side effects.
Inform your healthcare professional if you are taking any other drugs such as:
Intake of specific food or using alcohol or tobacco with this drug is associated with an increased risk of certain side effects. Your healthcare professional can give you special instructions about the use of food, alcohol, or tobacco.
Inform your doctor if you have any other medical problems such as anemia, electrolyte or mineral imbalance, granulocytopenia, heart disease, seizures, dehydration, kidney disease, or controlled sodium diet.
3 Proper Usage
Proper usage of Foscavir requires strict adherence to your doctor’s orders.
A trained healthcare professional will be the only one to give you this drug in a hospital. This drug is administered intravenously through a needle placed in one of your veins.
The drug must be injected slowly, so your IV tube will need to stay in place for at least 1 to 2 hours. Extra liquids may be given into your vein before or with your treatment to help prevent kidney damage associated with this drug. You may be advised to increase your fluid intake while you are being given this drug.
This drug must be given for the full time of treatment to ensure complete drug therapy. This drug must be given in a regular schedule to ensure that it works optimally by having a constant amount in the blood.
4 Precautions to Take
In using Foscavir, you must be careful and take some precautions as advised by your doctor.
Regular visits should be made to your healthcare provider to track your progress and to monitor the effectiveness and unwanted effects of the drug. Unwanted effects can be screened using blood and urine tests.
Breastfeeding is not recommended if you have HIV or AIDS, to prevent transmitting the infection to your baby through your breast milk. Washing your genitals after urination may decrease the chance of having sores on the genitals associated with the effects of this drug.
You may be referred to an ophthalmologist to have your eyes checked at regular visits since you may have some loss of eyesight due to retinitis even while you are receiving this drug. This drug can cause dizziness. Driving or doing anything else that could be dangerous is not recommended while taking this drug.
Consult with your healthcare professional before you take any other prescription or nonprescription drugs, and herbal or vitamin supplements.
As with many medications, there are several potential side effects associated with Foscavir.
Side effects may vary for each individual and prompt medical attention should be given if they occur. Seek advice from your healthcare professional immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms such as:
Increased or decreased frequency of urination or amount of urine
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. As your body adjusts to the drug, the side effects will slowly disappear. Ask your healthcare professional about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
If any of the following side effects persists, or are inconvenient, or if you notice any other effects, or if you have any questions about them, consult with your health care professional. Report any side effects to the FDA hotline at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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