DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Fomivirsen

March 21, 2017

Fomivirsen intravitreal injection

What are fomivirsen intravitreal injection?

FOMIVIRSEN (Vitraveneā„¢) is an antiviral agent. Fomivirsen is used to treat cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis (viral eye infection) in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Fomivirsen is not a cure. Other regions of the body can be affected by CMV and require additional treatment.

NOTE:This drug is discontinued in the United States.

What should my health care professional know before I receive fomivirsen?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to fomivirsen, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Fomivirsen injections are injected into the eye. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

What if I miss a dose?

If you can not keep a scheduled appointment to receive your injection, contact your healthcare professional.

What drug(s) may interact with fomivirsen?

No interactions with other medicines have been observed with fomivirsen intravitreal injection.

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking fomivirsen?

Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Have your eyes checked regularly. Tell your prescriber or health care professional as soon as you can if you get any other infection or swelling in the eyes.

What side effects may I notice from receiving fomivirsen?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor as soon as possible:

  • bleeding in the eye

  • cataract formation

  • diarrhea

  • eye pain

  • fever

  • loss of appetite

  • loss of vision

  • prolonged change in vision

  • swelling and inflammation of the eye

  • trouble breathing

  • vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor if they continue or are bothersome):

  • blurred vision

  • cough

  • dizziness

  • flashing or sparkling before your eyes

  • headache

  • increased sensitivity of the eyes to light

  • nausea

  • sweating

Where can I keep my medicine?

Each dose of fomivirsen will be administered in the office of a health-care professional. You will not be given fomivirsen doses to store at home.

Updated:  

March 21, 2017

Sources:  

U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert