Explain Adverse Effects of Cidofovir
About 25% of patients discontinue cidofovir because of adverse effects such as nephrotoxicity, neutropenia and metabolic acidosis. Iritis, uveitis or ocular hypotony can happen. To decrease the risk of nephrotoxicity, IV 0.9% saline and oral probenecid must be given with each cidofovir dose. Cidofovir is contraindicated in patients taking other nephrotoxic agents. Adverse effects are more common in patients at the same time taking antiretroviral drugs. The drug is oncogenic in animals. Topical cidofovir (not commercially available) causes local irritation and ulceration, especially in concentrations of 3% or higher.