Foscarnet

What is foscarnet?

Foscarnet (also called Foscavir^®) is a medicine used to treat viral infections caused by cytomegalovirus (also called CMV) and other viruses. It is available as a clear liquid given into a vein (IV) over a period of one (1) to 2 hours.

Possible side effects of foscarnet

Early

• Nausea, vomiting
• Fever
• Headache

Later (more than a day after treatment starts)

• Decreased kidney function
• Changes in electrolyte levels
• Changes in liver function
• Decreased calcium levels
• Diarrhea

If you have any of these side effects, tell the doctor right away:

• Seizures
• Decrease in how much or how often you urinate
• Numbness or tingling of the feet or hands
• An allergic reaction including itching, trouble breathing, pain in the chest, blue skin color, or swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat

In case of a severe side effect or reaction, call the doctor, nurse, or pharmacist at 595-3300. If you are outside the Memphis area, dial toll-free 1-866-2STJUDE (1-866-278-5833), and press 0 once the call is connected.

Special instructions for foscarnet

• Drinking plenty of liquids will reduce the chance of kidney damage while you are receiving foscarnet. The doctor or nurse will tell you how much liquid you should drink.
• To help hydrate you, the staff will also give saline solution by vein (IV) before a foscarnet infusion.
• Electrolyte supplements may be needed during therapy with foscarnet. Electrolytes can be given by mouth or given by vein in IV fluids.
• While you are receiving foscarnet, blood tests will be done to check for changes in kidney or liver function and to monitor blood counts and electrolytes.
• Foscarnet can cause birth defects. If you are sexually active, you should use 2 forms of birth control while you are receiving foscarnet and for 90 days after the foscarnet therapy ends.