Cidofovir used together with probenecid (gout medicine) to treat infections caused by a virus called cytomegalovirus (CMV) especially in those patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
This medicine may be used to treat other conditions as decided by your doctor.
Cidofovir injection is to be given intravenously (into the vein). It is delivered directly into the bloodstream via the blood vessel.
Your doctor or nurse will administer the injection for you.
Ensure that you keep all appointments with your doctor so that you do not miss any doses. Your doctor also needs to regularly monitor your response to Cidofovir.
If you miss an appointment or miss an injection, alert your doctor or nurse. A replacement appointment or injection should be given as soon as possible.
Alert your doctor if you ever had an allergic reaction (breathlessness, rashes, swollen eyes) to probenecid or other sulfa-containing medications and similar antiviral medications.
Alert your doctor if you have kidney disease, as this medicine may not be suitable for you.
Do not use Cidofovir if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby soon. If you become pregnant while being treated with this medicine, alert your doctor immediately. Cidofovir may cause harm to your unborn child. You must use proven birth control methods while taking this medicine.
Do not use this medicine if you are breastfeeding.
For as long as you are using this medicine, you may need to have regular blood tests to check your body's response to the medicine and the health of your kidney. You may also need to have regular follow-up eye examinations. Your doctor will advise you how often you need to have them.
Cidofovir may cause any of the following side effects: headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, back pain, depression, confusion and hallucinations.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- fever with persistent sore throat or mouth ulcers and unusual bleeding or bruising
- eye inflammation
- shortness of breath
- swollen ankles, feet or hands
- rashes accompanied with joint pain or stiffness, throat tightness and itching
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- antibiotics e.g. tobramycin, gentamicin
- medicines for HIV e.g. zidovudine, tenofovir
- medicines for fungal infections e.g. amphotericin B
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Cidofovir.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Throw away remaining solution after 12 hours. Do not freeze.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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