Foscavir (Foscarnet Sodium Injection) Patient Information: Side Effects and Drug Images at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Foscavir

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Foscavir

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Foscavir Patient Information Including Side Effects

Brand Names: Foscavir

Generic Name: foscarnet (Pronunciation: fos KAR net)

What is foscarnet (Foscavir)?

Foscarnet is an antiviral medication that prevents certain virus cells from multiplying in your body.

Foscarnet is used to treat cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in people with AIDS. Foscarnet is not a cure for CMV, and the virus may progress during or after treatment.

Foscarnet is also used to treat herpes simplex virus (HSV) in people with a weak immune system. Foscarnet is usually given for HSV after other antiviral medications have been tried without successful treatment.

Foscarnet may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of foscarnet (Foscavir)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using foscarnet and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

urinating less than usual or not at all;
dry mouth, increased thirst, drowsiness, restless feeling, confusion, nausea, vomiting, increased urination, muscle pain or weakness, fast heart rate, feeling light-headed, fainting, or seizure (convulsions);
fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;
pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding;
numbness or tingling around your mouth or in your hands or feet;
restless muscle movements in your eyes, tongue, jaw, or neck;
trouble breathing; or
pain or burning when you urinate.

Keep using foscarnet and talk with your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects:

anxiety, confusion, depressed mood;
nausea, stomach pain, vomiting;
headache, dizziness;
cough;
increased sweating;
skin rash;
problems with vision;
weakness, tired feeling;
joint or muscle pain; or
pain or swelling where the injection was given.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about foscarnet (Foscavir)?

Foscarnet is not a cure for CMV, and the virus may progress during or after treatment.

Before using foscarnet, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, a seizure disorder, heart disease, a nerve disorder, or an electrolyte imbalance such as low calcium, potassium, or magnesium.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your kidney function may also need to be tested, and you may also need regular eye exams. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Stop using foscarnet and call your doctor at once if you urinate less than usual or not at all, or if you have numbness or tingling around your mouth, uncontrolled muscle movements, or pain or burning when you urinate.

There are many other medicines that can cause kidney damage or lower calcium levels and should not be used together with foscarnet. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list with you of all the medicines you use and show this list to any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you.

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