Cytomegalovirus infection drugs used

Markham A, Faulds D (1994) Ganciclovir An update of its therapeutic use in cytomegalovirus infection. Drugs 48 455 84. 

Acyclovir is useful for treating infections caused by HSV, herpes zoster, and for VZV infections (Whitley and Roizman, 2001). Although HCMV is relatively resistant to acyclovir, some cytomegalovirus infections have responded marginally to large doses of acyclovir, and it seems to be effective for the prophylaxis of cytomegalovirus infections in immunocompromised patients. Epstein-Barr virus is not sensitive to acyclovir, and clinical infections do not respond to the drug. 

Naphthyridine-2-carboxylamides were covered by patents as drugs used in the therapy and prophylaxis of cytomegalovirus infection (1997PIAW09734894). 

Antiviral drugp interfere with viral reproduction by altering DNA synthesis. These drug are used in the treatment of herpes simplex infections of the eye, treatment in immunocompromised patients with cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis, and for the prevention of CMV retinitis in patients undergoing transplant. 

Clinical uses and toxicity The drug is used for prophylaxis and treatment of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections (including CMV retinitis) and has activity against ganciclovir-resistant strains of this virus (Table 49-1). Foscarnet inhibits herpes DNA polymerase in acyclovir-resistant strains that are thymidine kinase-deficient and may suppress such resistant herpetic infections in patients with AIDS. Adverse effects include nephrotoxicity (30% incidence) with disturbances in electrolyte balance (especially hypocalcemia), genitourinary ulceration, and CNS effects (headache, hallucinations, seizures). 

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