Fomivirsen (Into The Eye)

Fomivirsen (foe-MI-vir-sen)

Treats an infection called cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Brand Name(s):

Vitravene
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to fomivirsen.

How to Use This Medicine:

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.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• 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 While Using This Medicine:

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:

• Fever
• Headache
• Mild skin rash
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Sinus pain or stuffy nose
• Stomach pain

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.