Fomivirsen (Into the eye)
foe-mi-VIR-sen
Treats an infection called cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Drug classes
Antiviral (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Fomivirsen is an antiviral medicine that is injected into the eye (intravitreal). It is used to treat a serious condition called cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in persons who have acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Fomivirsen will not cure this eye infection, but it may help to keep the symptoms from becoming worse.
This medicine is available only with your doctor’s prescription.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Injectable
Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into your eye by your doctor. Your eye will be numbed with an anesthetic medicine before the injection.
If a dose is missed:
This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor for instructions.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Make sure your doctor knows if you have received cidofovir (Vistide®) as an injection into your veins or eyes during the past 2 to 4 weeks.
When Not To Use
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to fomivirsen.
Warnings
Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
This medicine treats CMV only in the eye(s). It will not treat CMV that has infected the rest of your body.
You will need to have your eyes checked at regular visits while you are receiving this medicine.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing
Blurred vision
Eye pain, swelling, or irritation
“Seeing stars” that appear to be floating
Sensitivity to light
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Stomach pain
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Vitravene
There may be other brand names for this medicine.