Foscarnet
Foscarnet is an antiviral medication that acts as an organic analogue of inorganic pyrophosphate. It selectively inhibits the pyrophosphate binding site on viral DNA polymerases, preventing viral replication. Because of its potential for severe renal impairment and electrolyte imbalances, it requires close clinical monitoring.
Dosage by Body Weight
Administered strictly by intravenous infusion. Safe administration requires precise dosage calculations based on the patient's renal function (creatinine clearance) and body weight. Adequate hydration is essential before and during infusion to minimize the risk of nephrotoxicity.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routine / Specialist calculation required
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients have not been established. Requires extreme caution and specialist calculation.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 40 to 60 mg/kg per dose
- Frequency
- Every 8 to 12 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Must be adjusted dynamically according to renal clearance. Strict clinical monitoring of calcium and creatinine is required.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 40 to 60 mg/kg per dose
- Frequency
- Every 8 to 12 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Administered via slow intravenous infusion over 1.5 to 2 hours. Ensure adequate pre-hydration with normal saline.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 40 to 60 mg/kg per dose
- Frequency
- Every 8 to 12 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Dose must be individualized. Monitor for signs of electrolyte imbalance such as tingling or tetany.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 40 to 60 mg/kg per dose
- Frequency
- Every 8 to 12 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Infusion concentration should not exceed 12 mg/mL when administered via a peripheral vein to avoid irritation.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routine / Specialist calculation required | Use only if prescribed | Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients have not been established. Requires extreme caution and specialist calculation. |
| 5-7 kg | 40 to 60 mg/kg per dose | Every 8 to 12 hours | Must be adjusted dynamically according to renal clearance. Strict clinical monitoring of calcium and creatinine is required. |
| 8-10 kg | 40 to 60 mg/kg per dose | Every 8 to 12 hours | Administered via slow intravenous infusion over 1.5 to 2 hours. Ensure adequate pre-hydration with normal saline. |
| 11-15 kg | 40 to 60 mg/kg per dose | Every 8 to 12 hours | Dose must be individualized. Monitor for signs of electrolyte imbalance such as tingling or tetany. |
| 16-20 kg | 40 to 60 mg/kg per dose | Every 8 to 12 hours | Infusion concentration should not exceed 12 mg/mL when administered via a peripheral vein to avoid irritation. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used to treat cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in patients with AIDS, and acyclovir-resistant mucocutaneous herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections in immunocompromised patients.
Generic Name
Foscarnet sodiumBranded Drug Names
Foscarnet is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.