Perhaps you or someone in your family has been told by your doctor to give you this vaccine called 'Cidofovir'. It's normal to feel a little curious, and perhaps even nervous, when you hear this name. This is not a common medicine that you use at home. So, today we'll talk about this vaccine, what it actually does, and what you need to be careful about when taking it.
What really happens with this medicine?
Simply put, Cidofovir is a medicine that is used to control and treat infections caused by certain types of viruses in the body. It is an antiviral drug.
But here's something very important. This medicine does not kill the virus completely. Instead, it controls the virus from spreading further inside the body, that is, multiplying. This means that there is a chance that you can infect someone else while you are taking this treatment. Also, this is not a medicine for the common cold, flu, or bacterial infections.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting treatment
It is very important to discuss these issues clearly with your medical team before deciding whether this treatment is right for you, as the dosage or method of treatment you receive may change based on this information.
| Your situation | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| Kidney disease | This medicine can mainly affect the kidneys. Therefore, if you already have kidney disease, your doctor should be aware of it. |
| Diabetes | Diabetes can also affect the kidneys, so it is important to be aware of this. |
| Low blood counts | If you have low levels of white blood cells, red blood cells, or platelets in your blood, this medicine may make that condition worse. |
| Dehydration | If the amount of water in the body is reduced, the risk of kidney damage is higher. |
| Allergies | Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any allergies to cidofovir, probenecid, or any other medications or foods. |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant | This medicine can cause serious harm to the unborn baby, so talk about it openly. |
| If the baby is breastfed | Since this medication can pass to the baby through breast milk, breastfeeding should be avoided. |
How do you use this medicine?
This medicine is given as an injection into a vein . This is given to you by a medical team in a hospital or clinic.
The most important thing is that with this injection, you will be given another pill called probenecid. This pill helps to minimize the damage that the cidofovir injection can cause to your kidneys. Therefore, it is essential to take this medicine exactly as your doctor tells you.
Complete this treatment until your medical team tells you to stop. Do not stop treatment even if you feel better.
What if I take too much medicine?
This is unlikely to happen as it is given in a hospital setting. However, if you suspect that you have taken too much of this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What if I miss the day to get the vaccine?
If you are unable to come in for your scheduled vaccination, please let your healthcare team know as soon as possible. It is very important to get your vaccination on time.
What other medications are incompatible with this medicine?
It is very important to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking (prescribed by a doctor, bought from a pharmacy, traditional medicines, vitamins, herbal products). Some medications can interact with this vaccine, increasing side effects or decreasing its effectiveness.
You should be especially careful with the following medications:
- Aspirin and similar medications
- Pain and inflammation reducing medications (NSAIDs) - e.g. Ibuprofen, Diclofenac
- Some other anti-infectives - eg: acyclovir, gentamicin, vancomycin, amphotericin B
- Anticancer drugs - e.g. cisplatin
- Immune-suppressing medications - e.g. cyclosporine, tacrolimus
- Diuretics
- Zidovudine (a medicine for HIV)
This list is not complete, so don't forget to tell your doctor about all the medications you take .
Things to consider during treatment
Your medical team will be constantly monitoring your health while you are taking this medication, and your cooperation is very important.
- Blood tests: While taking this medicine, you will need to have regular blood tests to check your blood cell counts (white blood cells, red blood cells) and kidney function.
- Vision: Your vision may also be checked before and during treatment. If you notice any changes in your vision (such as blurred vision), tell your doctor immediately.
- Avoid dehydration: Tell your medical team if you have severe diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive sweating. This medication can be dangerous if you lose too much water from your body.
Special advice about pregnancy and fertility
This section is very important. Please pay close attention.
For women
It is important that you avoid becoming pregnant while taking this medicine and for 1 month after stopping treatment . You should use a highly effective form of birth control. There is a high risk of serious harm to the baby in the womb. Talk to your doctor about this and get advice on a suitable form of birth control.
For men
Men taking this medicine must use a condom when having sex with a woman who is of childbearing potential. This should be done during treatment and for 3 months after stopping treatment . This is because if your partner becomes pregnant, there is a risk of serious harm to the unborn child.
Possible impact on fertility
This medicine may affect fertility. This means that it may be difficult to have a baby. If you have any concerns about this, talk to your doctor about it.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, cidofovir can cause side effects. Not everyone gets them, but it's important to be aware of them.
| Side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the lips, face, tongue or throat. |
| Kidney damage | Decreased urine output, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet. |
| Changes in eyesight | Blurred vision, eye pain. |
| Signs of infection | Fever, chills, cough, sore throat. |
| Decreased red blood cells | Unusual fatigue, dizziness, difficulty breathing. |
| Other serious symptoms | Fast or irregular heartbeat, unusual bleeding or bruising, yellowing of the skin or eyes. |
| Usually not serious (but tell your doctor if it persists) | |
| Digestive system problems | Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, bloating. |
| Other | Hair loss, mild itching of the skin. |
Take-Home Message
- Cidofovir is a medicine given intravenously in a hospital and used to treat certain viral infections.
- Before starting treatment, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and all other medications you are taking.
- It is essential to take the probenecid pill, which is given to protect the kidneys, as prescribed.
- Both women and men must take strict measures to prevent pregnancy during treatment and for a period of time afterward.
- If you notice any serious side effects, such as signs of kidney damage (decreased urination, swelling), allergies, or changes in vision, notify your medical team immediately.
- If you have any questions or concerns about your health, talk openly with your doctor. Don't be afraid.
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