About cidofovir dihydrate
Antiviral nucleotide analogue
Used for
- Treatment of cytomegalovirus retinitis in adults with AIDS, when other treatments are unsuitable.
Usual adult dose
Induction: 5 mg/kg intravenously weekly for two doses. Maintenance: 5 mg/kg every two weeks. Probenecid and intravenous saline are required.
Common side effects
- Kidney damage
- Low white blood cell counts
- Eye inflammation or reduced eye pressure
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea
Important warnings
- Can cause severe kidney injury; kidney tests and urine checks are required.
- Must be given with probenecid and intravenous saline to reduce kidney risk.
- Avoid other kidney-damaging medicines where possible; treatment may need to be withheld.
- Can cause low blood counts and eye problems; monitoring is needed.
Pregnancy
May harm an unborn baby. Avoid during pregnancy; effective contraception is recommended during treatment and for one month afterward.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment or for one month afterward.
Interactions
- Probenecid is required and can interact with many medicines.
- Other medicines that may damage the kidneys can increase toxicity.
- Zidovudine may require dose adjustment or temporary interruption.
- Interactions with theophylline, warfarin, and some other medicines may require monitoring.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.