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Cidofovir ( si-DAW-foh-veer ) (Vistide®) What is this medication used for? Cidofovir is an agent used to treat viral infections such as adenovirus, BK virus, cytomegalovirus, and drug-resistant herpes simplex virus. Cidofovir works by slowing the growth of the virus.
What does it look like? • Clear liquid How is it given?
What are the less common side effects? • Severe allergic reactions (for example, rash, hives, itching, or difficulty breathing) • Decreased sodium bicarbonate levels (metabolic acidosis) • Kidney damage • Black, tarry stools • Vision changes • Eye pain, severe eye irritation • Pancreatitis (may be experienced as very bad stomach pain or back pain, vomiting) Special instructions: • Severe kidney problems may occur while a patient is taking this medication. IV fluids and another medication called probenecid will be given before cidofovir. After cidofovir is given, probenecid will be given again. • Blood tests will be done to check the white blood cell count. • This medicine may cause kidney damage, so kidney function will be tested before the patient receives this treatment. • Consult your healthcare provider before becoming pregnant, fathering a child, or breastfeeding. It may be important to use birth control while taking this medicine and for several months after treatment is completed. • In utero exposure may cause fetal harm.
• Into the vein (IV) or venous access device What are the common side effects? • Low white blood cell counts (neutropenia) • Increased risk of infection • Fever
• Nausea or vomiting • Decreased appetite • Diarrhea • Hair loss (alopecia)
• Headache • Weakness • Pain • Agitation • Skin rash • Cough
Notes from Your Healthcare Team
Not all of the possible side effects of this medicine and precautions related to taking it are covered in this information sheet. For a complete list of side effects and precautions, ask your healthcare professional (doctor, nurse, pharmacist) for a manufacturer’s package insert or another reference.
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