foscarnet

n.
An antiviral drug, CNa₃O₅P, used in the treatment of several AIDS-related infections including cytomegalovirus retinitis.

[Alteration of PHOS(PHORUS) + CAR(BON) + net (probably shortening and alteration of Latin natrium, sodium; see natron).]

Brand names: Foscavir®

Chemical formula:

Español:
• Foscarnet Sódico, Solución para inyección

Foscarnet Sodium Solution for injection

What is this medicine?

FOSCARNET is an antiviral. It is used to treat eye infections of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in patients with immune system problems. It is also used to treat mucosal skin infections of herpes in patients with immune system problems. This medicine is not a cure for CMV or herpes.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• anemia
• heart disease
• kidney disease
• low blood calcium
• nervous system disease
• seizures
• an unusual or allergic reaction to foscarnet, other medicines, drugs, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for infusion into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
• cidofovir

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
• acyclovir
• amphotericin B
• certain antibiotics given by injection
• cisplatin
• cyclosporine
• pentamidine
• ritonavir
• saquinavir

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. Discuss any new symptoms with your doctor. You will need to have important blood work done while on this medicine. If you have a CMV eye infection have your eyes checked every 4 to 6 weeks.

Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water or fluids daily while taking this medicine to help prevent side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any tingling or numbness in your mouth or in your arms or legs. This may be a sign of a serious problem.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• breathing problems
• changes in vision
• fast or irregular heartbeat
• fever or chills, sore throat
• muscle twitch
• pain, swelling at site where injected
• seizures
• numb, tingling pain
• trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• unusually tired or weak

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• aches and pains
• anxiety
• diarrhea
• headache
• loss of appetite
• nausea, vomiting
• stomach pain
• weight loss

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

If you are using this medicine at home, you will be instructed on how to store this medicine. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date on the label.

Last updated: 7/1/2002

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.

(fŏs-kär'nĭt)
n.

A pyrophosphate analogue used to treat herpes simplex infections.

A pyrophosphate analog used as an antiviral agent against herpesviruses.