| DRUG | SUPPLIED | DOSE | COMMENTS |
|---|---|---|---|
| FOSCARNET (Paeds) (Foscavir) Mechanism of action: Foscarnet is an antiviral medication used to treat herpes viruses, including drug-resistant cytomegalovirus (CMV) and herpes simplex viruses types 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2). It is a structural mimic of the anion pyrophosphate that selectively inhibits the pyrophosphate binding site on viral DNA polymerases at concentrations that do not affect human DNA polymerases. Ref: 6, 44, 621-5 Last update: 2022-07-02 |
Injection: 6000 mg/250 mL vial. |
Preemptive therapy/treatment of asymptomatic viremia: 60 mg/kg/dose IV Q8-12H Treatment of CMV disease/ induction: 60 mg/kg/dose IV Q8H or 90 mg/kg/dose IV Q12H Secondary prophylaxis/maintenance: 90 mg/kg/dose IV once daily |
Ganciclovir/valganciclovir is first-line for CMV infection. Consultation with Infectious Diseases is strongly encouraged. Duration of treatment depends on indication and response; ideally continue until serum/plasma viral load is undetectable. Weak evidence for secondary prophylaxis. Dose adjustment required in renal impairment. May cause renal impairment, electrolyte disturbances, anemia, headache, and GI disturbances. Hydration recommended prior to each dose: 10-20 mL/kg normal saline or other appropriate fluid prior to each dose (usual adult hydration 750-1000 mL prior to first dose and 500-750 mL prior to subsequent doses). Standard Prescription: foscarnet __ mg IV Q _ H (__ mg/kg/dose) |